The procrastinators may believe that they have too few assets, the process would be too costly, or they are too young to worry about dying. But everyone over 18 should have some estate plan, regardless of their estate’s value. The goals are to provide clarity, minimize probate, protect family unity, and avoid conflict. Despite […]
Tales of Caution
Avoiding Scams After the Death of a Loved One
When it comes to making money, scammers don’t think about the people they are victimizing. All they focus on is increasing their income by whatever means necessary. That said, certain groups of people are at a higher risk of being targeted than others. Not surprisingly, those who are in mourning are one of the categories […]
Community Property or Separate Property?
Each state has its own set of rules when it comes to marital or community property. Most states operate under the common law system of property ownership, which clearly defines which spouse owns each asset. If you put only your name on the account, deed, title, or registration, then you own that asset regardless of […]
Clawing Back Assets After Probate
Contesting a will can be an expensive and painful struggle. But suppose the will has already been probated (accepted by the court as valid) and the assets distributed to the beneficiaries? Then a challenge becomes exponentially harder, especially as the assets may have been sold or disposed of. New information might have come to light. […]
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