If you want the best estate planning possible, you will need to take extra care when handling your affairs. It can be extremely beneficial to get the help of an experienced and qualified estate planning attorney. He or she will be there to advise you throughout the entire process and help you develop the best plan that meets your needs. Take a look at the following information, to learn more about the 4 benefits of hiring a experienced and qualifiied estate planning lawyer. If you have any … [Read more...] about 4 Benefits to Hiring an Estate Planning Attorney
BLOG
Estate Planning in the Divorce Context
Most couples enter into marriage with the hope that the union will last forever. As such, couples typically blend assets, name each other as beneficiaries in estate planning documents, and assume the other one will take care of the children in the event of death. Sadly, more than 50 percent of all marriages end in divorce. If you are in the middle of a divorce, or who has recently concluded the divorce process, you may not have considered the impact the divorce has on your estate plan. While … [Read more...] about Estate Planning in the Divorce Context
How to Choose A Trustee
A trust requires a few essential components, one of which is a trustee. The trustee performs a wide variety of functions within the trust, making the choice of trustee one of the most important decisions you make when you create your trust. Ultimately, only you can decide who to appoint as trustee; however, there are some factors that are worth considering when making the decision. Location of Trust Assets: This is a factor that is easy to overlook. Because your trustee must manage all … [Read more...] about How to Choose A Trustee
Estate Planning: Essential for Small Business Owners
If you own a small business, make sure you include your interest in the business in your estate plan. Even if you plan to leave all your interest in the business to a family member, failing to structure the transfer of your interest in the business in the right way could subject the value of the interest to estate or gift taxes. With proper planning, you may be able to minimize or eliminate estate or gift taxes by using one of the numerous business succession options. Sale of Your Business: … [Read more...] about Estate Planning: Essential for Small Business Owners
The Questions of Estate Planning, Part 4: Where
People often have questions about Estate Planning. This is the fourth in a series of articles by my friend and colleague Steve Hartnett, an estate planning expert, addressing those questions. This fourth article addresses the “where” of Estate Planning. Read on to learn more. The Questions of Estate Planning, Part 4: Where … [Read more...] about The Questions of Estate Planning, Part 4: Where
The Questions of Estate Planning, Part 3: When
People often have questions about Estate Planning. This is the third in a series of articles by my friend and colleague Steve Hartnett, an estate planning expert, addressing those questions. This third article addresses “when” to do Estate Planning. Read on to learn more. The Questions of Estate Planning, Part 3: When … [Read more...] about The Questions of Estate Planning, Part 3: When
The Questions of Estate Planning, Part 2
People often have questions about Estate Planning. This is the second in a series of articles by my friend and colleague Steve Hartnett, an estate planning expert, addressing those questions. This second article addresses “what” Estate Planning comprises. Read on to learn more. The Questions of Estate Planning, Part 2 … [Read more...] about The Questions of Estate Planning, Part 2
The Questions of Estate Planning, Part I: Who
People often have questions on Estate Planning. This is the first in a series of articles addressing those questions. This first article by my friend and colleague Steve Hartnett, an estate planning expert, addresses “who” should do Estate Planning. Read on to learn more. The Questions of Estate Planning, Part I: Who … [Read more...] about The Questions of Estate Planning, Part I: Who
Naming Alternate Beneficiaries in Your Estate Plan
When you create your estate plan, you’re taking the time to make sure that your assets are given to the right people. By naming beneficiaries, you’re in control over how your assets will be distributed after your death. Unfortunately, your assets may not be able to be given to your first choice beneficiaries. Take a look at some of the information below to better understand the importance of naming alternate beneficiaries. If you have any questions, or if you need help creating your estate … [Read more...] about Naming Alternate Beneficiaries in Your Estate Plan
Student Loans and Death
When serving as executor of an estate, you are responsible for identifying legitimate creditor claims. If you didn’t know better, you might accidently pay claims that aren’t due, such as student loans. The liability for student loans in canceled at death. If you’re responsible for settling an estate (or trust) be sure to consult a probate – estate planning attorney for good advice. Executor Duties This is a list of common executor duties in California: Lodge the will and file … [Read more...] about Student Loans and Death
