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.
While many people consider a “simple will” an important part of taking care of their family after their death, they forget to consider including a versatile option: Trusts. Trusts come into being through a person’s will or a separate legal document establishing that trust. A person who creates a trust is called a “grantor” or “donor.” When a trust is...
Parents and caregivers of special needs children in Minnesota understand the importance of planning ahead to ensure the future care of their loved one. For most families, this includes working with a special needs lawyer to create trusts and other legal documents which provide for the continuing care of the child when their parent is no longer able to do...
Once you have decided you need a lawyer, the next question is how do you find a lawyer? There are many different ways to find a lawyer, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the most common ways to find a lawyer: Referrals from Friends and Family By asking friends and family members for referrals, you are getting a...
A common theme among many going through a divorce is the desire to have a “nice” divorce in the most cost-effective way possible. There are many different opinions on how to accomplish this. Today I will explain five options and give some pros/cons for each. I will start off with two general caveats. First of all, I would encourage everyone to at least...
The best thing you can ever give someone you love is peace of mind. Stress and uncertainty can take a toll on all of us, the comfort and reassurance that comes from a well thought out plan can go a long way of relieving the burden. Update Your Will. Hire an attorney who will really take the time to explain the documents to you. Make sure your documents...
In the divorce seminars I teach and in my initial consultations with clients, I often talk about the difference between the emotional divorce and the legal divorce. I am an attorney, it is my job to help with the legal divorce; to help my clients get through the court process and settle issues related to property and debt division, spousal maintenance, and...
For many adults in Minnesota, the thought of estate planning conjures up visions of grandma and grandpa putting together a will or a trust to pass down their home or cherished heirlooms to family members. It’s all about providing for our offspring, right? Not necessarily. Even if you are single and/or have no children, sitting down with a will and trust...
One of the most important things to understand when working with a lawyer (and one of the major deterrents in hiring a lawyer) is legal fees. Before hiring a lawyer it is important to understand the fee structure that is used, how much money is required upfront (also known as the retainer), what is covered by the lawyer’s fees, what the extra costs are,...
As social networking websites such as Facebook, Twitter, and Myspace gain in popularity, attorneys are dealing with issues regarding the use, or misuse, of these sites. Employers are using these sites to check up on employees, litigants are using these sites to uncover dirt on opposing sides and witnesses, and in family law cases, parties are using these...
Divorce can be difficult, but you don’t need to be unprepared. Being prepared can help you handle the emotions, understand the legal process, and get through the divorce as stress-free as possible. Below are some steps to take towards a “nice” divorce: Find a Support Network Divorce can be a very challenging and emotional time. Be good to yourself and find...
While not everyone needs a will, most people could benefit from a will. You could use a will if: You would not want your property divided according to your state’s intestacy laws You would want to leave something to a person not recognized by your state’s intestacy laws (a non-marital partner, a stepchild, a best friend) You or your spouse have children...
In many households, the dog or cat has become an important member of the family. So it is not surprising that battles over Fluffy and Fido are becoming more common in divorce court. However, legally, pets are still viewed as property and options for dealing with pet custody in a divorce are very limited. The courts will not make a decision based upon “the...