One of the main benefits of estate and trust planning is the avoidance of probate proceedings. But what does that mean? And why should you want to avoid probate in the first place? The main reason to avoid probate in Minnesota is simply that it’s a long, public, and costly...
Granting someone power of attorney means that you are giving them the authority to make important decisions on your behalf should you be incapable of making them yourself. The scope, duration, and other specifics are up to you. While the laws vary in each state, it's usually as...
The national news has been filled with tragedy lately, including acts of senseless violence committed against random strangers. Families and communities across the nation are mourning the loss of their loved ones and doing what they can to help the survivors. While most people...
Estate planning can be difficult for anyone, but in some ways, the Personal Representative (also known as executor) of the estate ends up with the hardest job. It is important to talk with your Minnesota estate planning lawyer to determine if your chosen executor is right for...
Seniors and their families are left at a disadvantage as the costs of assisted living facilities continue to rise. While it may sometimes seem like there is no relief from these rising care costs, there may be a way for families to get a bit of relief in the form of tax...
Talking to your family about death can be tough. We don’t like to think about dying and we don't like to think about our loved ones dying. But death is inevitable and the conversation is important to have. If something were to happen to you - would your family know what to do?...
Estate planning is incredibly important for all parents, as it allows them the opportunity to make very difficult choices. It provides the chance to determine who will raise your minor children if you can’t, what money will be set aside or used for their upbringing, and even...
Once an older loved one starts to show signs of dementia, you will likely need to start thinking about the type of care he or she will need in the future. When your loved one gets to the point where he or she is no longer able to remain in their home, a dementia care facility...
Even those who don’t fully understand the probate process are pretty clear about the fact that they want to avoid it. As a Central Minnesota probate lawyer, I see so many cases where probate could have been shortened or avoided altogether if only people had more information. ...
As 2020 draws to a close, it may be time to take a fresh look at your financial and legal documents to ensure that your affairs are in order and that you are ending the year on a solid foundation This is especially important if you’ve experienced any notable life or financial...
If you’ve set up a Revocable Living Trust, congratulations! As a Minnesota will and trust lawyer, I assure you that you’ve taken a very important step in protecting your assets and your family in the event you become incapacitated or pass away. However, just because you’ve...
The number of adult children caring for their elderly parents is growing at a very fast pace. If you are a baby boomer and not already caring for an elderly parent, chances are high that you might be facing this situation soon. It isn’t always easy to know when, or how, to...