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.
Typically, adult children have three options when they inherit a house from their parents: they can move in, sell, or rent it out. If you and/or your siblings have recently inherited a house and don’t really know what to do, we’d suggest contacting a Minnesota estate planning attorney to determine which of the following solutions is right for your...
The loss of a loved one is always a challenging time. Amidst the emotional turmoil, there are several practical tasks that must be undertaken. One of the foremost among these is obtaining the deceased's death certificate. Why Do You Need a Death Certificate?A death certificate serves multiple purposes:Legal Proof: It's the official document that...
A Personal Representative, or Executor, of an estate is simply the person who is designated to carry out the wishes set forth in the decedent's will. This person also has the responsibility of finishing up the decedent's final affairs, such as paying outstanding bills and taxes. A Personal Representative is usually named by the decedent in his or her will,...
The probate process can seem daunting, especially when navigating the myriad of assets left behind by a loved one. While many assets pass through probate, some bypass this legal process altogether. Understanding this distinction is crucial for beneficiaries and personal representatives. Let's explore these exclusions together. Key Assets Excluded from...
When it comes to estate planning, ensuring that your will is legally valid is paramount. One of the key components of a valid will is having witnesses present during its signing. But why is this step so crucial? Our Minnesota estate lawyer delves into the importance of having witnesses for your will below.Legal ValidationThe primary reason for having...
When you're named a beneficiary of a trust, it's natural to have questions about your inheritance and the trustee's actions. Knowing your rights is essential in ensuring transparency and fair management. Here, our Minnesota trust attorney shed light on the powers and responsibilities at play.Your Rights as a BeneficiaryRight to Information: As a...
Choosing a guardian for any child is a weighty decision, but when that child has special needs, the stakes are even higher. Parents need to ensure not only a safe and loving environment but also one that caters to their child's unique requirements. An experienced Minnesota special needs attorney can offer some vital considerations to bear in mind.Key...
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”...