Leaving Property to Children in a Will
I read that when making a will, I could leave my property to my children “per stripes.” Why is the law talking about us like we’re some kind of zebra? The phrase is Latin and it is “per stirpes,” not…
Health Care Power of Attorney / Health Care Proxy: Specific or General
You have the right to decide what kind of medical treatment you want to receive from doctors and health-care providers. If you can speak up at the time, you can express your wishes yourself. But if you become incapable because…
Elder Law Attorneys Benefit Seniors and Their Families
An elder law attorney specializes as a legal advocate for aging adults and their loved ones. Elder law encompasses a wide range of legal matters affecting an older or disabled person. Issues related to guardianship, retirement, health care, including advance…
Understanding the Impacts Medicare Has on Inheritances Planning
An inheritance can be the source of costly mistakes related to Medicaid which should be avoided. When a person is drawing Medicaid benefits and inherits money or property, that inheritance jeopardizes the benefits. The inheritance must be handled carefully to…
Medicaid Matters: How to Plan for your Ill Spouse’s Out of Home Care
You may see it coming: Much as you want to and hard as you try, you just can’t take care of your ill spouse at home anymore. At this emotionally difficult time, the last thing you need is the stress…
Who Should Make Financial Decisions for You?
Who should you trust to manage your financial well being when you are no longer able to do so? A power of attorney (POA), otherwise known as an agent to your principal, or “attorney-in-fact,” has the legal authority to represent…
The COVID 19 Pandemic Has Prompted Americans of All Ages Are creating Their Wills
There has been an explosion in the numbers of Americans rushing to make their will online. Understandably, the coronavirus pandemic has created the scramble to set up wills and end-of-life-directives. However, online do it yourself (DIY) wills are often deemed…
Why is a Personal Property Memorandum Important to Your Estate Plan?
Family members often end up arguing over mom or dad’s favorite items when that parent dies. Arguments can take place over things like a coffee mug, a piece of jewelry or a painting. These types of arguments can be eliminated…
Writing a Letter of Intent for Your Special Needs Child
Writing a letter of intent (LOI) for your special needs child can help bring them family continuity and comfort after you are gone. As a parent, the most valuable asset your child has is you and your ability to care…
What You Need to Know About Senior Estate Planning
When it comes to estate planning, older Americans are typically more prepared than their younger counterparts. However, according to survey data, only 19 percent of people over the age 72 and 42 percent of those between 53 and 71, have…