Probate refers to the process of executing the estate and distributing the money of someone who has recently passed away. However, some people wish to avoid going to probate court for reasons such as convenience, cost, and time. Here are some of the ways that you can...
Estate Planning
Does your estate plan need some spring cleaning?
With its cooler temperatures and wetter weather, winter can take a toll on the cleanliness of any house. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that many Americans use spring to spruce up their homes. In fact, according to the American Cleaning Institute, more than...
Who makes a good health care agent?
If you are planning your estate, you should not forget to think about the possibility of your incapacitation. After all, a serious illness or catastrophic injury may render you unable to make critical decisions about the medical care you need. By naming a health care...
How to get older parents to complete their estate planning
Not everyone is proactive about handling estate planning. Some put it off as long as possible, imagining they will always have time to get it done. Suddenly, it is too late. This mistake leaves children and other relatives in the lurch. Estates without planning...
What is undue influence?
Working on a loved one's estate plan is already stressful enough even if everything goes exactly according to plan. Unfortunately, with so many moving pieces in place, this kind of smoothness serves as a rarity. Other people often get involved where they should not be...
Does your autistic son need a special needs trust?
Autism seems to be more common these days than ever before. In fact, according to Autism Speaks, roughly one out of every 44 children in the U.S. has some type of autism spectrum disorder. Among boys, the number is one in 27. If your son is on the autism spectrum, you...
Can a living trust benefit your estate plan?
Planning your estate may seem like a daunting task. There are ways, however, to simplify the process and ensure you have your affairs in order. A living trust is just one way you can organize your property and assets. Whether you have recently married or you are...
What should you know about advance directives?
For the most part, dealing with an estate plan entails planning ahead for a future after your death. But did you know that you can also plan for events that might happen while you are still alive? An advance directive might be one of the most important documents you...
Can a child be disinherited in a will?
Parents and children disagree on issues daily, but when those disagreements become harmful or central in the lives of either party, some parents consider disinheriting their children. This is a process that should be studied seriously because it is not a minor issue....
What is a living will?
A living will should be a part of your essential estate planning documents. Without it, you cannot ensure your loved ones will know how to carry out your medical wishes if you cannot. According to the U.S. News, a living will is beneficial to people of all ages and...

