Read on for five events that should capture your attention and prompt you to reach out to us for some personalized advice.

When everyone is alive and happy, it is easy to think nothing will break a family apart. Many people think because everyone is getting along

A few years ago, I was rushed to emergency room by ambulance with an apparent massive heart attack. To have a doctor calmly (as I was being rushed into a waiting elevator with numerous wires attached to my body, and numerous medical staff surrounding me talking their “medical” language) tell you right to your face, “Mr. Newman, you either had or are in the midst of a massive heart attack and …” quite honestly, I do not remember much else of what he said. I do remember seeing

Getting the news you have to undergo major surgery is never easy. Preparing for absences from work, planning for childcare, parent care, household responsibilities, medical bills, etc. will be among the things you may worry about. Hopefully, reviewing your estate plan will also be a priority. But what if you only have a few weeks—or even days—to react? Who should you call? How can you concentrate enough to get this work done? Make the best use of your time by considering the

As Valentine’s Day brings heart-shaped chocolate boxes and roses by the dozen into your imagination, seize the moment to learn about the drawbacks of “I love you” wills and introduce yourself to the estate planning move that is actually going to ensure you do well by your loved ones: a lifetime beneficiary trust. Rise above the misconceptions No aspect of estate planning brings out as much emotional decision-making as the division of assets. Many people think, “I love you,” s

If you are like my family, the craziness has begun. The shopping, searching for the recipes, cleaning the house for the family members and guests, planning the activities, and the anticipation, excitement (and dread) of the families coming together for Thanksgiving holiday weekend. But despite the craziness of the occasion, it is a great time to have discussions about your estate planning desires, and decisions with your family and loved ones. The idea of getting your financi

Wow! Thanksgiving is next week! 2019 is just around the corner. I remember looking forward to ending 2017 and anticipating the arrival of 2018. Now I barely remember 2018! At least I am blessed to still be here doing what I love! Now on to why you decided to read this message. As we all prepare for the holidays and a new year, it is important we wrap up any loose strings. Before entering into the new year, here are some things that need to be on your end of year checklist: 1

Considering the myriad of trusts available, creating an estate plan that works can seem daunting. However, that is what we, as estate planning attorneys, do every day. We know the laws, you explain your situation, and together we design a plan which meets your goals. Here is a look at the basics of ten common trusts to provide a general understanding. There will not be a quiz at the end. All you need to do when we meet is to completely share your goals and provide honest and

If you are recently married or have been married and are acquiring additional assets, know that you have options when it comes to how the property will be titled. And, although joint tenancy seems like an easy and convenient choice, it may not work as well as you would think. What is Joint Tenancy? After getting married, it is common for couples to take title to one another’s bank accounts, brokerage accounts, personal property, and other assets as joint tenants with rights o

How to Leave Assets to Adult Children When considering how to leave assets to adult children, the first step is to decide how much each one should receive. Most parents want to treat their children fairly, but this does not necessarily mean they should receive equal shares of your estate. For example, it may be desirable to give more to a child who is a teacher than to one who has a successful business, or to “compensate” a child who has been a primary caregiver. Some parents