Estate planning, elder law, family transitions, business planning – the legal issues that affect your family are always evolving. Jennifer writes regularly to keep you informed, educated, and empowered. Browse the latest articles below, or search by topic to find what you’re looking for.
The decision of who to appoint as your personal representative or trustee is a huge one, and we’ve talked about it a bit in the past. Still, it’s important to make sure that you have the information you need to make the right choice with your Minnesota estate lawyer. This person will hold incredible responsibility for overseeing what becomes of...
For those who have served in the military, estate planning takes on unique considerations. Veterans have earned specific benefits and honors due to their service, and it's essential that these are incorporated into an estate and long-term care plan. Here are some key points veterans should consider:1. Safeguarding Your DD214Your DD214, or Certificate of...
When a loved one enters hospice care, it can be a difficult and overwhelming experience. One of the most important things to consider is estate planning—which can help ensure that your loved one’s wishes are honored and surviving family members are financially cared for. The following steps can help caregivers more smoothly navigate legal issues that arise...
Estate planning is a crucial topic, but it's often cloaked in sensitivity, especially when older loved ones feel that their finances are private matters. Knowing how to navigate this conversation respectfully and effectively is crucial. Why It MattersHaving a will and comprehensive estate plan ensures that your loved one's wishes are carried out,...
An essential part of estate planning is designating beneficiaries for your life insurance policy, 401(k), and other financial accounts. A beneficiary is a person who receives someone's assets upon their death.There is no "correct choice" when choosing the beneficiaries who will inherit from you. It’s a personal decision. What must be handled “properly”...
When navigating the intricacies of Medical Assistance, particularly when planning for long-term care, you'll encounter terms that might be unfamiliar yet profoundly influential. One such term is "community spouse." As your local Minnesota elder law attorney, I'm here to demystify this concept and its implications for Medical Assistance eligibility and...
The holiday season is joyous for many. However, it can be overwhelming if you care for an older adult. People in their senior years often feel isolated from the outside world if they can't participate in certain festivities. Maybe they used to be active and loved playing with their kids and grandkids but no longer have the energy or physical abilities....
Creating an estate plan feels like something you check off a to-do list. Once the task is complete, you can move on and forget about it. However, that is not the mentality you should take when drafting your final wishes. An estate plan should reflect your current circumstances and should be periodically reviewed and amended as your life changes.How often...
Inheriting an asset can be a mixed blessing. While it might signify a meaningful bequest from a loved one, it also comes with its own tax implications. One of the most significant tax features to understand when inheriting property is the "step-up in basis". As a Minnesota estate planning attorney, I often encounter clients who are unaware or confused...
A recent survey counted over 18.2 million American Veterans over age 65. Many of these Veterans include those who served in World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and the Persian Gulf War. Suppose you are caring for an elderly Veteran. In that case, you should know about the benefits and services available for the various health and...
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 deductions. Medical expenses, which typically include most long-term care expenses, are...
When there's a significant age difference between your children, estate planning can require extra attention to detail. You're not only considering their immediate needs but also forecasting the challenges each child may face at different life stages. As your Minnesota estate planning lawyer, I'm here to highlight the nuances you should consider in such...