blog & insights

Nosey Neighbor Nellie Can Find Out About Your Probate. Really.

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Most people think of probate as a private process. However, since wills are filed at the courthouse, probated estates become a matter of public record. That means your nosey neighbor Nellie can simply go down to the courthouse or hop online and find out about your probate. Really. It’s Not Just Nellie That Has Access……

Wills, Trusts & Dying Intestate: How They Differ

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Most people understand that having some sort of an estate plan is, as Martha Stewart would say, a “good thing.” However, many of us don’t take the steps to get that estate plan in place because we don’t understand the nuances between wills and trusts –and dying without either. Here’s what will generally happen if…

Estate Planning That Expresses Who You Are – 5 Things to Talk About with Your Family

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You intend to pass along your wealth through your estate plan, but what about your wisdom? Ensuring you accomplish both calls for a family meeting to have a conversation about your money, your legacy, and your core principles. Most families lead far-flung and busy lives, meaning the only time they see one another face-to-face is…

Wills vs. Trusts: A Quick & Simple Reference Guide

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Confused about the differences between wills and trusts? If so, you’re not alone. While it’s always wise to contact experts like us, it’s also important to understand the basics. Here’s a quick and simple reference guide: What Revocable Living Trusts Can Do –That Wills Can’t Avoid a conservatorship and guardianship. A revocable living trust allows…

Do It Now: Name a Guardian for Your Minor Child(ren)

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We know it’s hard. Thinking about someone else raising your children stops us all in our tracks. It feels crushing and too horrific to consider. But you must. If you don’t, a stranger will determine who raises your children if something happens to you – your child’s guardian could be a relative you despise or…