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.
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...
If you share a close bond with your nieces and nephews, ensuring they're included in your estate plan is natural. However, the laws of inheritance can complicate things, especially for younger beneficiaries. Let's unravel the factors to consider: How Inheritance Laws Work without a WillWhen you die without a will (known as dying "intestate"), state...
Being named a trustee is an important responsibility, but sometimes life throws unexpected situations your way. When a loved one is hospitalized and you have to step into the trustee role, you might feel overwhelmed and uncertain about what lies ahead. Here's a guide on how to navigate your new responsibilities and ensure your loved one's best interests...
As a parent, you want nothing more than for your children to get along. But the reality is, sibling relationships can be complex and sometimes fraught with disagreements. When planning your estate, facing the prospect of your children arguing about your legacy is incredibly stressful. Rest assured, there are ways to structure your estate plan thoughtfully...
You've found your dream home and your offer's been accepted – this is an exciting time! As you approach closing, your agent, attorney, or title company will ask how you'd like to hold the title to the property. While individual ownership is common, placing your new house into a trust right from the start has compelling advantages. Why Transfer Your...
When creating an estate plan with the help of a Minnesota will attorney, you’ll be asked to choose the beneficiaries whom you want to inherit your money and property when you pass away. In most cases, our clients tell us that they want their life’s hard work to go toward the betterment of their children’s lives. Due to age differences, children will...