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 rule of thumb, no one else is obligated to pay the debt of a person who has died. So, in general, you will not be responsible to pay off your deceased spouse's debts. However, there are some exceptions that vary from state to state: If you co-sign on a loan, then you now owe the debt.If you are a joint account holder of a credit card owned by the...
When you decide it's time to get serious about your future, you might be surprised to learn that you need not one, but two professionals in your corner: an estate planning lawyer and a financial advisor. Many people assume these roles are interchangeable or that one professional can handle it all. Spoiler alert: they are two separate roles and here's why...
As parents we often find ourselves lost in thought about their future. We picture a world where they're safe, happy, and well-cared for, even when we're no longer around to guide them. This is especially true for parents of children with special needs who will rely on their parents' support well into adulthood. Unfortunately there's a hard truth that many...
If you're a new doctor building your practice or a seasoned physician branching out on your own, it's time to give serious thought to asset protection planning. Did you know that doctors are among the top professionals targeted in lawsuits? It's not a matter of "if" but "when" you might face a claim.We often hear some common misconceptions from doctors...
Finding love later in life is a beautiful thing. But sometimes, the realities of life and past decisions can throw a wrench into the fairy tale. A common scenario I encounter as a Minnesota estate lawyer involves couples where one spouse moves into a home owned by the other's adult children.It's a situation that often arises from a well-intentioned...
In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's easy to put off estate planning. But as a Minnesota estate lawyer, I can't stress enough how crucial it is to have your affairs in order, especially when it comes to healthcare decisions and financial management.Two key roles in your estate plan are your healthcare agent and your power of attorney. They're...
As a single parent, your plate is already full. You're juggling work, childcare, school activities, and maybe even a bit of "me time" (if you're lucky!). It's understandable that estate planning might not be at the top of your to-do list.But let's face it: one of the biggest worries for single parents is, "What would happen to my children if something...
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...