When done properly, an estate plan affords peace of mind to those creating it and leaves behind a legacy for their loved ones. But, sometimes estate planning can go awry – and it’s usually due to eccentricities held by either the creators of the estate plan, the beneficiaries, or both. To give a … [Read more...] about 5 Most Infamous Estate Planning Battles
Legal Fees
Should I get legal insurance?
It is open enrollment season and one of the benefits your employer is offering is legal insurance. Should you sign up for it? The answer to that question, like many other legal questions, is – it depends. Before making your decision, here are some questions to ask. What exactly is covered? All … [Read more...] about Should I get legal insurance?
Considering Online Estate Planning? Think Twice
The recent proliferation of online estate planning document services has attracted many individuals to prepare their own estate documents in what appears to be a low-cost solution. However, this focus on price over value could mean your wishes will not be carried out and, unfortunately, nobody will … [Read more...] about Considering Online Estate Planning? Think Twice
Know the Risks of “D-I-Y” Divorce
“Do it yourself” divorce is fraught with risks – even if your case is “simple” and both parties agree on all issues regarding division of property, support, and child custody and visitation. As many have learned the hard way, it is all too easy to make critical missteps today that will come back to … [Read more...] about Know the Risks of “D-I-Y” Divorce
How Much Does a Will Cost?
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 contain information … [Read more...] about How Much Does a Will Cost?
The Mediation Misconception
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 always save you money. … [Read more...] about The Mediation Misconception
7 Reasons To Hire An Attorney For Your Uncontested Divorce
A common misconception is that a divorce attorney is only needed when there are disagreements between the spouses. But when there is a complete agreement on all divorce issues many couples think a divorce attorney is an unnecessary expense. Instead they get free forms from the court, pay for forms … [Read more...] about 7 Reasons To Hire An Attorney For Your Uncontested Divorce
Will My Spouse Have to Pay My Lawyer’s Fees?
A frequent question I hear is “Will my spouse have to pay my attorney's fees?” My answer to this is “Don't count on it.” In Minnesota, attorney's fees can be awarded one of two ways: need-based or conduct-based. Need-based awarded mean that one party cannot afford the fees and that the other … [Read more...] about Will My Spouse Have to Pay My Lawyer’s Fees?
How to Find a Lawyer
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 … [Read more...] about How to Find a Lawyer
