When your child was born, you and your spouse had the incentive you needed to create a will and to name the person(s) who would take over the care of your child in case you both died before they reached adulthood. Having someone who has agreed to take on that role and...
Estate Planning
What happens to property you didn’t include in your will?
It’s wise to review and update your will and other estate plan documents periodically – particularly when there are changes to your life or family that could affect it. However, it’s not practical to update it every time you buy or receive a new computer, piece of...
Who should be the executor of my estate?
One significant aspect of your estate plan will involve putting others in positions to take on certain obligations if you fall ill or after you pass away. These roles can be stressful and demanding, but they are crucial. As such, it can be prudent to make your...
3 types of conflicts that can arise during probate
The probate process can trigger several different types of conflicts. Knowing some of the common disputes that can arise during probate can help you prepare yourself for the road ahead - whether you are navigating it yourself or completing your own estate planning....
Don’t overlook these digital details in your estate plan
If you are making or revising your estate plan, one crucial component to address is your digital life. The assets, accounts and businesses you have online will likely require attention when you pass away, Unfortunately, people often forget to include certain details...
Using trusts to protect your children – and your legacy
The steps you take (or do not take) to create an estate plan can affect your loved ones for generations to come. And establishing a trust for your children can play a significant role in this. Different trusts for different children When you are considering trusts for...
Difficult situations an estate administrator may need to navigate
The priority of an estate plan is to ensure you express your wishes in the event of incapacity or death. However, another element to consider is how your loved ones will fare through these complicated situations. This can involve thinking carefully about who you...
Protecting yourself, your wishes if you are incapacitated
If you have thought about making an estate plan but put it off, chances are you did so because you don't think you need one, or you don't want to think about what happens after you pass away. However, estate planning is not just about your legacy and what you leave...
Effective planning for your long-term care needs
Estate planning can be crucial in helping your loved ones make decisions and navigate the legal process of finalizing your affairs. However, it can be valuable well before you pass away or become incapacitated. Completing legal and financial planning now can help you...
What happens when someone dies without a will?
If you are young, healthy and have relatively few assets, the last thing you may be thinking of is creating an estate plan. People often think they do not need one until they are older or sick. However, not having a will can prove to be a serious mistake that leaves...