Our Blog - Surety Matters

 Achieving educational goals can be life-changing—as is the gift of paid tuition! A trust can be a great way to gift education to family members. Unlike a will, a trust, overseen by a trustee, allows…
Read Moreabout Educational Goals and Family Trusts

Unlike wills, trusts do not pass through the public probate process—and therefore can protect a family’s privacy. Some families, however, end up with public conflicts even when a trust has been established. Take, for example,…
Read Moreabout Out of Trust?

Every state has a probate process: legal steps through which property is transferred from the dead to the living. If there is a will, it is admitted to probate court to initiate the process. If…
Read Moreabout Probate and Personal Representatives?

  Unfavorable verdicts in civil court cases may be successfully overturned—if there are grounds for appeal based on the court’s legal proceedings. Lawyers share insights about what it takes to win on appeal. Clarity, Brevity…
Read Moreabout Winning on Appeal: The Basics Explained

  What happens when a married couple is divorcing, owns a business and is disputing who controls it—and the assets? One legal remedy that can help is an injunction. What’s An Injunction? Injunctions are often…
Read Moreabout Injunctions As a Remedy During Divorce Proceedings

Usually, when someone dies, probate court is notified by a friend or family member, so that the affairs of the deceased can be settled—and assets distributed. What if no one notifies the court to initiate…
Read Moreabout Probate Court: Administering Unsettled Affairs

When an elderly loved one can’t make sound decisions, legal guardianship may be a helpful option. Understand the process of appointing a guardian and the role of the guardian. In An Ideal World It would…
Read Moreabout Legally Appointed Guardians for the Elderly

Just as family conflicts and miscommunications can be a challenge in life, so too can they create difficulties upon death. Read on for practical, expert advice for those who may feel they have been slighted…
Read Moreabout When Can a Will Be Contested?

If you have made a will or trust—good for you! But, if it is outdated, it may cause a lot of headaches down the road. Here’s a quick way to assess potential updates needed.  Time…
Read Moreabout An Annual Checkup You Really Can Do For Yourself