What is the purpose of a comprehensive estate plan? An estate plan includes a number of different tools and strategies that all work together to accomplish your various estate goals and objectives. Although every estate plan is unique, one common addition to an estate plan is a living trust. So, what is a living trust? Why should you implement it into your estate plan? Furthermore, how can a living trust benefit your estate planning goals? Read on to learn the answers to these … [Read more...] about What Is The Purpose Of A Living Trust?
How Federal Gift and Estate Taxes Can Derail Your Estate Plans
You worked hard your entire life to provide your loved ones and yourself with financial security. The last thing you want is the government to take any of your estate. Yet, if you do not plan ahead and investigate ways to avoid federal gift and estate taxes, you could face serious consequences. As much as forty percent of your estate and gifts to your friends and family could be lost. But fear not! There are ways to minimize or negate these taxes, including the lifetime exemption, marital … [Read more...] about How Federal Gift and Estate Taxes Can Derail Your Estate Plans
Planning is Critical
It’s always important to have a plan. This is particularly true in estate planning. Did you know if you die without a Will (intestate), your state law dictates who gets your property and makes decisions for you? Read on to learn more about a heart-breaking story of someone who didn’t plan ahead. The consequences will devastate you. Planning is Critical … [Read more...] about Planning is Critical
Famous Estates-Champ or Chump? George Foreman
George Foreman, The Come Back King George Foreman is a comeback king for far more than just his boxing. He once told global media organization, Fortune, “Don’t ever stop earning, it’s a curse to think you have enough. There is never enough. George Foreman, Bill Gates—anyone. Money has to be spent. It is not made to be saved.” George Foreman is a retired American professional boxer, two-times World Heavyweight Champion, Olympic gold medalist, ordained minister, author, and entrepreneur. He has … [Read more...] about Famous Estates-Champ or Chump? George Foreman
Remembering D-Day
Today, June 6th 2019, marks the 75th anniversary of the largest amphibious invasion in history known as Operation Neptune. We know this more commonly as D-Day. We would like to take a moment to remember all that was lost for the sake of our freedoms. We do so, that the estimated 160,000 soldiers who fought for our rights on this day do not pass from our memories as time too passes away from us. To all those who have served, thank you. May we never forget that the free soil we walk upon came … [Read more...] about Remembering D-Day
Can an Elder Law Attorney Help Me If I Suspect Nursing Home Abuse?
What can an elder law attorney do for you? At some point in your life you may have to make the difficult decision to place a parent in a nursing home. Individuals rarely make the decision lightly. However, once you have made the decision that a nursing home is the best, or the only, viable option for your parent, the next step can be equally difficult. Choosing the right nursing home can cause a lot of stress and worry. Despite taking your time, doing your research, and conducting interviews … [Read more...] about Can an Elder Law Attorney Help Me If I Suspect Nursing Home Abuse?
What Is an Adult Guardianship?
None of us like to dwell on the fact that as we age, so do our parents. Eventually, the parent that once took care of you may need to be taken care of by you. This role reversal could be nothing more than a result of the natural aging process. However, it could also point to far more concerning issues. If you notice that your parent’s physical and/or mental health is continuing to deteriorate, it may be time to step in and take legal action. Doing so could prevent your parent from serious … [Read more...] about What Is an Adult Guardianship?
When and Where You Die Matters
Where you die matters. While you’ll pay the same federal estate tax no matter where you die, 1/3 of the states have a separate estate or inheritance tax. The most populous state, California, is the latest state to consider adding a state estate tax. Read on to learn more. When and Where You Die Matters … [Read more...] about When and Where You Die Matters
Did Y’all Hear? Texas Voted Sexiest Accent in The USA
Media group, Big 7 Travel, surveyed 1.5 million people and got the official scoop on the sexiest accents in the USA. The big winner? Why of course it's the state that specializes in everything big, Texas! Bless Boston's heart. They came in second with New York close behind, but ain't nobody can beat the twangy charm of Texas! So, when you feel your heart thumping and start sweating like a sinner in church when those eyes of Texas are upon you, don't feel alone darlin'. Apparently everyone … [Read more...] about Did Y’all Hear? Texas Voted Sexiest Accent in The USA
The Texas Probate Process
You will likely be directly involved in the probate of an estate at some point in your life. For instance, you might find that the decedent appointed you to be the Executor of the estate. You might even volunteer to administer the estate if the decedent died intestate (without leaving behind a valid Last Will and Testament.) You could also find yourself involved in the probate process because you were named as a beneficiary, legal heir, or creditor of the estate. As such, some minimal working … [Read more...] about The Texas Probate Process
