How much does it cost to have an attorney do your Will? I see this question fairly often and while it seems like a very easy question, there is no easy answer. Keep in mind the legal field is notoriously bad about publicizing information on legal fees. Law firm websites rarely...
Having an estate plan that does what it is meant to do requires a little maintenance. Conducting an estate plan audit at least once every three years can save you (and your family) a lot of stress and heartache. To conduct an audit, just follow these steps. If you have any...
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; and that mediation will...
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 must be notified of the name...
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 purchased from the...
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 options. A will does not prevent...
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 have happier marriages, and...
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 things that you can do to ensure...
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 January 1st, 2007, limited...
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 proximity – these reasons can...
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 that is so easy to get. It can...
For parents with disabled children, whether minor or adult, it’s a good idea to take the extra step of meeting with a Minnesota special needs planning attorney. This gives you the opportunity to set up the best possible scenario for your child if you are no longer able to...