Do You Need a Trust?

Estate Planning, Trust

Before addressing (in future posts) the reasons a trust can be extremely helpful, it may be helpful to know some reasons that people are told they should have a trust . . . but which may not be true. People are sometimes told to have a trust to avoid probate. Most...

What Will Your Estate Plan Accomplish for Your Family?

Estate Planning, Trust

For those who attend my presentations, I offer a free, no obligation estate planning audit. There are three reasons for the audit. First, we discuss the issues/questions important to that person or couple. Second, we discuss what is accomplished with their current...

The Lesson Behind Estate Planning We Must Not Forget

Estate Planning, Trust, Wills

I write these columns primarily to encourage people to prepare their estate plan before it is too late. Without preparation, many families must deal with terribly difficult situations that could have been avoided. Proper planning means more than simply listing what...

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...

Does Your Estate Plan Enhance or Undermine Family Harmony?

Estate Planning

You may recall the story a few years ago about a local couple, married over 50 years, who passed away the same night. Although no one is certain, it appears that she fell, and in attempting to help her, he fell as well. They were found next to each other. It was a...