Our Blog - Surety Matters

What can happen when someone dies without a will—but has left a hand written note expressing intentions for the distribution of assets? Read on to explore what happened in a recent case in Texas.  Understanding…
Read Moreabout Court Ruling on Holographic Will in Texas

In conversation, the words “heir” and “beneficiary” are commonly used synonymously. Legally, they are not! Read on to understand the difference. If There’s A Will, There’s A… Plan for beneficiaries!  In other words, in a…
Read Moreabout Confused? Learn the Difference Between Heirs and Beneficiaries

How should court-appointed guardians handle decisions about the COVID-19 vaccine with their wards? Experts advise: apply the substituted judgment standard. Focus On The Ward’s Wishes and Values Carefully and respectfully making important decisions on behalf…
Read Moreabout Guardians and Vaccine Decisions

An Appeal for Clarity: Consumers Win in Appellate Court  Is “100% Grated Parmesan Cheese” false advertising? Yes, said the Seventh Circuit Court, giving the appellants—consumers—a win.  Deciphering The Labels  What are consumers expected to reasonably…
Read Moreabout An Appeal for Clarity: Consumers Win in Appellate Court

Unfortunately, it sometimes happens. Executor bonds are an important way to protect the beneficiaries named in the will. Confronting Irregularities Ordinarily, as a will is prepared, an executor is named to administer it when the…
Read Moreabout What If The Will’s Executor Steals from Beneficiaries?

The losing party in a civil court case can appeal the decision but is often required to secure an appeal bond. In an appellate court there is no jury—judges review the case for possible errors…
Read Moreabout Civil Court Case Appeals: Understanding the Process

A trustee must follow the prudent investor rule in managing the assets of a trust. Keep in mind: this is a process-based standard—not a performance-based one. Investing Trust Assets Volatile markets present unique challenges to…
Read Moreabout What’s a Trustee To Do: Facing Volatile Markets

Protecting the Vulnerable: Fiduciary Duties and Bonds Explained When someone cannot make sound decisions for themselves, a court can appoint a fiduciary to do so. Often, courts require fiduciary bonds to protect “the ward.” Safeguarding…
Read Moreabout Protecting the Vulnerable: Fiduciary Duties and Bonds Explained

What happens when an estate or trust plan has been set up to continue the operations of a business beyond the owner’s death—but the business ultimately does not provide value to the beneficiaries? Prioritizing the…
Read Moreabout Duty-Bound to Beneficiaries: Insights for Executors and Trustees