Some of the most common misconceptions I hear when it comes to the divorce process involve mediation. These misconceptions include the belief that a mediator can be used in place of a lawyer; that mediation is necessary to have a friendly divorce;...
There are multiple ways a person can experience a legal name change, including marriage, divorce, adoption, or a separate name change court proceeding. However it happens, once a legal name change has been granted there are several places that...
Just because the divorce is final does not mean the work is done. Here are some of the steps needed after a divorce: Documents: Obtain copies of your divorce decree. A plain copy may be provided by your lawyer or the court. Certified copies can be...
Probate is not scary. There is a common misconception (often used to sell more expensive trust-based plans) that probate is scary and expensive. Probate can be a routine process and in some cases probate may be easier and cheaper than other...
When a couple is planning their wedding nobody wants to think about divorce. But as a divorce attorney I commonly hear clients say "Why is X happening in the divorce? I wish I would have known that before." I can't help but wonder if we would...
A small business is a part of your identity, not to mention your livelihood. Minnesota business and estate planning lawyers look to protect both aspects of this should you die or become incapacitated. Advanced planning is one of the smartest...
In 2006, the Minnesota state legislature approved a drastic overhaul of the state’s child support guidelines based on an “income shares” model. (See Minn. Stat. 518A) The new child support guidelines were to be used for all new cases filed after...
One of the most important things in preparing your estate plan is naming the appropriate person to act as your Personal Representative (or Executor). Some people feel there is a “right” person to name, by virtue of relationship, birth order, or...
As an estate planning and family law attorney I cannot urge people enough to make sure their wishes are documented and, more importantly, their families are protected and prepared. A valid Health Care Directive is a critically important document...