Even if someone has a will in place, it’s still likely that his or her estate should be overseen by a good probate or estate attorney in Minnesota. These professionals understand the incredibly complex process that goes along with closing out someone’s estate after he or she...
The “ostrich syndrome” is part of human nature; it’s unpleasant to observe that which frightens us. However, pulling our heads from the sand and making preparations for frightening possibilities can provide significant emotional and psychological relief from fear. When it comes...
Your family-owned business is not just one of your most significant assets, it is also your legacy. Both must be protected by implementing a transition plan to arrange for transfer to your children or other loved ones upon your retirement or death. More than 70 percent of...
It is not unusual to have a family business. A business owned by one or both spouses, where one or both spouses work. A family business can be a wonderful thing while the spouses are happily married. But what happens in a divorce? Depending upon the type of business and the...
Many people own a family vacation home--a lakeside cabin, a beachfront condo--a place where parents, children and grandchildren can gather for vacations, holidays and a bit of relaxation. It is important that the treasured family vacation home be considered as part of a...
Every year, each individual who dies in the U.S. can leave a certain amount of money to his or her heirs before facing any federal estate taxes. For example, in 2016, a person who dies could leave $5.45 million to his or her heirs (or a charity) estate tax free, and everything...
Stepparent adoption is the most common form of adoption in the United States. Once the adoption is finalized, the stepparent assumes full financial and legal responsibility for his or her spouse’s child and the non-custodial parent’s rights and responsibilities are terminated....
#1 Establish a Comprehensive Plan Most estate planning attorneys will say that no person should use a “do-it-yourself” will kit to establish their estate plan. If you have a child with special needs, it is extremely important to seek competent legal counsel from an estate...
Many people are confused by advance directives for health care. They are unsure what type of directives are available, and whether or not they need need directives at all, especially if they are young. There are several types of advance directives. One is a living will, which...
If you are married for the first time and are working on your estate plan, the decisions about where the assets go are usually easy. Most parents in that situation want their entire estate to go to the surviving spouse, and upon the death of the surviving spouse, equally to...
“Do it yourself” divorce is fraught with risks – even if your case is “simple” and both parties agree on all issues regarding division of property, support, and child custody and visitation. As many have learned the hard way, it is all too easy to make critical missteps today...
There are a lot of misconceptions when it comes to child custody, support, and parenting time. While it is impossible to cover everything you need to know, here are 7 things you must know about child custody, support, and parenting time in Minnesota. 50/50 Custody does not...