All Wills Are Not Created Equal(ly)

Estate Planning, Wills

It has now been several years since we lost the “Queen of Soul,” Aretha Franklin. You may recall that a very public fight occurred over her estate. Ms. Franklin left a Will created in 2010. However, her family later discovered a 2014 handwritten document stuffed in...

Your Best Intentions Will Not Be Enough

Estate Planning, Wills

I recall a few years ago when a client passed away. His assets were not insignificant. His passing was sudden, and left serious issues affecting his family and his estate.His health had begun to deteriorate, but he thought there was still time. Nevertheless, he was...

Divorce and Your (or Your Child’s) Estate Plan

Deeds, Real Estate, Wills

Last column I addressed what would happen if your Will leaves everything to your spouse, but you later divorce and do not change the Will. Idaho law prohibits an ex-spouse from receiving assets just because he or she was named in a Will created prior to the divorce....

 Will This Cost You The Home?

Estate Planning

In my last post, I gave the example of a man with children from a prior relationship who purchased a home with his girlfriend.  When he dies, who will receive his share of the home? Since they are not married, the house is not community property.  This means there is...

Who Owns the Home?

Asset Protection

When counseling clients about estate planning, my primary objective is to help them maintain control of their estate.  This includes helping clients ensure that, on their passing, their assets go to those they want to receive them.  This result does not happen...