For individuals with special needs who rely on government benefits for support, safeguarding these benefits should be a priority. Read on to learn about some effective methods to protect these benefits while ensuring financial security for these individuals.

Dealing with the passing of a loved one is an inevitable part of life, bringing forth a wave of emotions and an array of tasks that can feel overwhelming. To assist you during this difficult period, we've compiled a straightforward guide of essential steps to consider.

May is National Elder Law Month! In acknowledgement of this, we decided to answer some questions about what Elder Law is and how meeting with an Elder Law attorney can help you.

Upon the death a person, his or her surviving spouse has several rights. One of the most important one is the spousal exemption. The spousal exemption is the amount that a surviving spouse may take from the estate of the deceased spouse free from claims of creditors.

Whether you are looking for information about basic estate planning or something more complex such as Medicaid qualification, there is a lot out there. Beware! The most common piece of advice we give is along the lines of: Every situation is different. Every family dynamic is different. Just because Google/Your Neighbor/Your Son/Your CPA said you should do this or that, does not mean you should!

Unfortunately, death is part of life. When someone close to us dies, the emotions and to-do lists can be overwhelming. Take time to take a deep breath. We have complied a very basic list of things to do

Estate planning “triggers” are essentially any milestones that increase your wealth or impact how you want your assets distributed after death. Each time you approach one of these life events, make sure these additions are accounted for by updating your Estate Plan. After all, life can change quickly and it is important to reflect that with proper planning. A good rule of thumb is to revisit and update your estate plan every three to five years.

Probate has a language all its own. If you are unfamiliar with the terms, the probate process can be confusing. Here are some helpful terms and definitions to help you stay on the right path!

What is Probate? Where does it take place? When does it happen? Who can start the Probate? How is Probate accomplished?

Occasionally, a client wants to disinherit a family member. This could be for a variety of reasons: the family member does not need the money, the family member is a bad apple, or there is someone else who needs the inheritance more.

There is a popular misconception that the client must leave these disinherited individuals an inheritance of $1.00. Such a bequest is completely unnecessary and could actually cost your estate.

The reading of the will as featured in movies and television is a common legal myth. Generally, after someone dies and the will is located, the executor will file to have the Will Probated. He or she will likely send copies to the beneficiaries or other family members. There will not be an official day where everyone goes to the attorney’s office and sits in fancy leather chairs while an attorney reads every clause in the will.

The main way most American families save for the future is through private retirement savings plans such as 401(k)s and IRAs. These plans offer the opportunity to designate a beneficiary upon the death of the account holder. These designations allow the account assets to bypass probate and pass directly to the named beneficiaries. Often, individuals make these decisions when initially setting up the account and never reconsider them.