Our Blog - Surety Matters

  Although adding adult children to a bank account may seem like an easy hack for estate planning, attorneys point out that joint bank accounts can result in complications and unforeseen results. Here’s advice–and some…
Read Moreabout Why Not Just Have A Joint Bank Account

  Upon the death of the testator (person who made the will), the designated executor must diligently adhere to the public process of probate. Meanwhile, beneficiaries tend to wonder: what’s the delay with asset distribution?…
Read Moreabout Executing A Will: What Takes So Long?

  For so many reasons, it’s important for every adult to have plans that address our care needs in the event of an emergency, as well as arrangements for our assets. Parents of minor children…
Read Moreabout Don’t Leave a Jigsaw Puzzle Behind: Estate Plan!

  When it comes to making arrangements to gift assets to relations, attorneys underscore the importance of clearly communicating intentions. This is true even if relationships have been strained and communicating requires courage: bad feelings…
Read Moreabout Better Than Litigation? Communication!

  As confidence in the possibility of a real retirement falls, and the number of us living longer lives rises, there’s a real possibility that more of us will need public help in our later…
Read Moreabout Too Much and Too Little? Medicaid Trusts

  Conservators can be appointed to make financial decisions and safeguard assets for adults experiencing capacity declines, including changes related to aging and dementia. Professional conservators are a possibility and can be a huge relief…
Read Moreabout Conservatorship vs Overprotection?

  Serving as an executor requires a commitment of time,  ideally, beginning when a will is made and the role accepted. Preparatory conversations about intentions and pragmatics, such as account information, will be a gift…
Read Moreabout Help for Executors: Probate Lawyers

  Generally, families want to respect the intentions of the deceased, though doing so can be easier said than done, as probate of Aretha Franklin’s estate illustrates. It has been over four years since her…
Read Moreabout Respecting the Intentions of The Deceased

  When accepting the request of a loved one or friend to serve as a trustee, keep in mind that the role comes with official, fiduciary obligations. In other words, as a trustee you are…
Read Moreabout Checklist for Trustees