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.
As a Minnesota elder law attorney, I often meet senior clients as a result of them coming into our offices with their adult children. When this situation happens, it is the lawyer’s job to recognize the differing needs and rights of both parties. The lawyer must be clear on who is being represented and then do his or her part to focus on that client.For...
Inheriting any assets from someone’s estate could benefit a person financially. However, it can also create some challenges. Cash and stock inheritances come with various advantages and disadvantages. Although they provide the funds someone might need to pay necessary expenses or grow their portfolio, some complications could arise. When you’re inheriting...
If you’ve ever lost a loved one, chances are you’ve had a few run-ins with the probate court. The goal of the probate process is to help the family of the deceased administer their estate and close out their final affairs after death. If he or she has a will, probate is a time when the courts check to ensure it is valid so that property can be distributed...
Creating a comprehensive estate plan can protect your interests and your family’s future. When you work hard to earn a living and obtain assets, it’s natural to want to pass them down to your children or dependents when you pass away. Unfortunately, many people don't understand how to keep their business and property intact when the unexpected happens....
Minnesota elder lawyers know that caring for an older adult from a distance can be a challenge. It can be overwhelming to think about your loved one living in a different state or even a foreign country, especially if their physical or mental impairments prevent them from taking care of themselves. The good news is that there are still ways to help manage...
Estate planning covers more than death and taxes; for many people, it’s about maintaining their “voice” and clearly outlining their wishes in the event of incapacity or disability in Minnesota. Far too many people assume that their loved ones know their wishes and are prepared to honor them if a medical crisis strikes. Unfortunately, tragic accidents or...
Estate planning is an emotionally challenging task at every step of the process. Whether you are writing your own will, helping an older relative plan their estate, or serving as the Personal Representative or executor of the estate of a deceased loved one, you must deal with all the feelings you have about your own death or that of someone close to you....
Estate planning isn't just for older people, couples with children, or individuals with a lot of financial wealth. Single people, young adults, and those with a modest income can also benefit from estate planning. As a Minnesota will and trust lawyer, I believe there are five essential items that should be considered by every adult, regardless of their...
Minnesota elder law attorneys know that making the decision to move an elderly loved one into an assisted living facility is never easy. However, when your elderly parent or grandparent is struggling with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, the situation can be particularly challenging. Challenges of Moving with Dementia For those with dementia, being...
Have you ever wondered what is the worst that can happen if you become incapacitated or pass away without an estate plan in place? If you have, you’re not alone. This is actually a common question our clients ask us, especially from those in close-knit families who believe that their kids (or other loved ones), can just automatically step in and peacefully...
If you have suffered the loss of your life partner, my heart goes out to you: few things in this world are quite as devastating. As a Minnesota probate lawyer, I know grief can debilitate, and the ‘to-do’ list in the immediate aftermath can seem impossible to manage. Please understand: you need to give yourself a recovery period after the passing of...
When done properly, an estate plan affords peace of mind to those creating it and leaves behind a legacy for their descendants. But, sometimes estate planning can go awry – and it’s usually due to eccentricities held by either the creators of the estate plan, the beneficiaries, or both. To give a good idea of how such planning can go wrong, our Minnesota...