Naming an Executor: What You Should Know

naming an executor

When having a will drafted, one of the important things to consider is naming an executor. This is the person designated to bear the task of carrying out the terms of the will. The executor of an estate is a fiduciary. They owe fiduciary duties to the beneficiaries when performing their responsibilities during the probate […]

Top Ten Questions to Ask When Estate Planning

Estate Planning attorney

Now That You Have Decided to Create Your Estate Plan, You Want to Be Sure You Cover All Your Bases and Leave Nothing Out.  An experienced Estate Planning attorney will help you go over various scenarios and be certain you have everything covered in all the right documents. While not a comprehensive list, here are […]

What is the Difference Between a Will and a Living Trust, and Which One Do I Need?

living trust or will

What Is Probate? Probate is the court process that takes place after someone dies. During probate, the decedent’s Will is proven valid, then his or her property gets identified, inventoried, appraised, and distributed after any payments to debts and/or taxes. Probate typically involves paperwork and court appearances by attorneys. The estate property pays legal and […]

Same-Sex Couples & Estate Planning

Your estate is everything you own – your car, home, bank accounts, life insurance, personal possessions, etc. Some estates are large, some are small, but just about everybody has one. What do all estates have in common? You can’t take it with you when you die. In honor of pride month, we are focusing on […]

Estate Planning Before, During and After a “Gray” Divorce

Before your divorce, you may have insurance policies, a Will or Power of Attorney that benefit the other spouse, or that names the other spouse as an executor. Before filing for divorce, you may want to make changes. Sometimes changes are prohibited after a divorce is filed, so check with your attorney. You may not […]

Divorce & Social Security

Many people going through a “gray” divorce may qualify for benefits based on their spouse’s earning history.