With every client we discuss the important of Life Insurance as well as its non-probate character, in other words, as long as a beneficiary is named other than the estate, the policy will pay out directly to that beneficiary, rather than passing according to will (and waiting for the Court’s…
For many clients, thinking about estate planning is about as enjoyable as scheduling a root canal. Thinking about death and making decisions in the event of later incapacity is difficult, stressful and often a process that many put off. On the other hand, making a decision to create an estate…
A Trustee is a person or entity (for example, a bank) given the responsibility of managing the property for the benefit of another person (beneficiary) according to the Trust terms (instructions) set out by the Trustor (Trust creator). While a Trustee is not expected to be a legal or financial…
Most clients know that they need a Power of Attorney in the event that they become incapacitated, but many do not know what other documents they need. Still others are not aware that these documents are only effective during their lifetimes– when you die, these documents do as well. Every…
When starting the Estate Planning process, I ask clients to think about their “People of Interest” and alternates. We discuss the roles of Executor, Trustee and Guardian and the qualities the persons serving these roles should possess. The Executor is the person named in a Will who will follow the instructions…
You may have heard that trusts are better than wills, or vice versa. Both estate planning tools are used to distribute assets and property, and each has its advantages and disadvantages. Some of the differences between Wills and Trusts are highlighted below: Privacy: Once filed with the county probate court, a Will becomes…