The mere mention of the word “probate” usually instills fear in people, conjuring up images of estates dragging on for years and incurring enormous expense. Seminars and books promoting living trusts are pervasive and they foster the misconception that probate is always an evil to be avoided.  Living trusts are touted as devices which...

 

Knowing what to do when a loved one becomes ill can alleviate some of the uncertainty and anxiety that normally follows. Oftentimes, people panic and start making changes to their estate plan without first consulting with an experienced attorney or tax advisor. Family, friends, and others who want to help, tend to...

It is a good idea to periodically review your will, health care proxy, living will, power of attorney and trust agreements to see if the contents of the documents still adequately reflect your wishes.

Typically, a change in family circumstances, such as a marriage, divorce, remarriage, or...

Clients are often and understandably confused about the differences between irrevocable trusts and revocable living trusts, and the consequences they each have for asset protection, estate planning and taxes.

Those who advocate living trusts commonly lead people to believe that these trusts will reduce estate taxes and...

We are all tired of hearing about the "fiscal cliff" and Congress's inability to come to agreement on the issue of taxes.  How does one plan one's estate in the midst of such uncertainty?  While estate taxes are, and should be, an integral consideration in the development of an estate plan, there...