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 most people have heard of a basic Last Will and Testament, they may not know what a Pour-Over Will is and how it works with a Living Trust. As a Minnesota will lawyer, I’d like to explain this estate planning tool.Essentially, a Pour-Over Will is used in conjunction with a Living Trust, either Revocable or Irrevocable, and directs that any assets you...
Many Americans unknowingly own mineral rights, or have the potential to inherit them. These rights encompass resources like oil, gas, precious metals, and more. Even if you don't live in a traditionally "mineral-rich" area, these rights can be passed down through generations, creating a surprise windfall, or posing a complex estate planning challenge.What...
As a Minnesota will lawyer, I often find that people associate the phrase “estate planning” with the task of making final plans and ensuring that loved ones are provided for after death. While we all want to make sure that our families are taken care of when we're no longer with them, planning for incapacity that can happen during one’s lifetime is one...
While the idea of a "prenup" is well-known, postnuptial agreements are often overlooked. These agreements, signed after marriage, can be a vital part of your Minnesota estate plan. They provide clarity and protection, particularly as your life and circumstances change.What is a Postnuptial Agreement?A postnuptial agreement is a legal contract between...
Dealing with the loss of a spouse is one of the most difficult situations a person can face. The grief alone can be crippling and adding to the stress is the need to deal with funeral arrangements and any other tasks that may have arisen during your spouse’s final illness. And if you’re like most married couples in the United States, you’ve probably also...
Starting the IVF process opens a world of excitement and hope for many couples. But amidst the anticipation, a sometimes uncomfortable reality emerges: what happens to the remaining embryos or genetic material if one or both parents die? A Deeply Personal DecisionThis is a deeply personal decision with strong opinions on all sides. The issue can even...
On December 20, 2019, President Trump signed into law the SECURE Act (Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement), which was included in a last-minute appropriations bill designed to avert a government shutdown before the end of the year. The new law will now affect how individuals are able to save money for their...
Sadly, family feuds are more common than we'd like to admit. These tensions can become incredibly stressful and even more so when one family member experiences a health crisis. If you're remarried and your adult children don't get along with your new spouse, it's natural to worry about potential conflicts during a time when support should be the...
The word "trust" gets used quite broadly, creating potential confusion. While a "living trust" is a widely discussed instrument for estate planning, it's crucial to understand that not every trust is a living trust. Below our Minnesota estate planning attorney break down the key distinctions. What is a Trust?Simply put, a trust is a legal arrangement...
Incorporating stocks and other investments into your estate plan requires careful consideration to ensure your hard-earned assets are transferred smoothly to your loved ones. There are several ways to pass down your stocks, each with its own advantages and potential tax implications.Methods for Stock Transfer You could list specific stocks or...
The decision to place a parent in a nursing home rarely comes easily. Apart from the emotional toll, significant financial and legal adjustments are often necessary. While immediate well-being takes priority, it's vital to safeguard your parent's assets and long-term care needs with proactive estate planning. Questions to Guide Your...
Hospice care offers comfort and support during a serious illness, focusing on quality of life rather than curative treatment. While it’s often associated with end-of-life situations, a hospice stay can last for months or even years. This highlights the importance of a flexible estate plan that addresses not only what happens after you pass but also the...