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.
The Veterans’ Administration’s non-service connected pension program can help supplement the income of elderly or disabled veterans. The VA deems any veteran age 65 or older to be permanently and totally disabled. This “disabled” classification entitles senior citizens who are veterans, or their widows, to tax-free pension payments regardless of their...
Even if someone has a will in place, it’s still likely that his or her estate should be overseen by a good probate or estate attorney in Minnesota. These professionals understand the incredibly complex process that goes along with closing out someone’s estate after he or she has passed away. Those who have worked with an estate planning lawyer can...
Many people own a family vacation home--a lakeside cabin, a beachfront condo--a place where parents, children and grandchildren can gather for vacations, holidays and a bit of relaxation. It is important that the treasured family vacation home be considered as part of a thorough estate plan. In many cases, the owner wants to ensure that the vacation home...
“I just need a simple will.” It’s a phrase estate planning attorneys hear practically every other day. From the client’s perspective, there’s no reason to do anything complicated, especially if it might lead to higher legal fees. Unfortunately, what may appear to be a “simple” estate is all too often rife with complications that, if not addressed...
Probate is not scary. There is a common misconception (often used to sell more expensive trust-based plans) that probate is scary and expensive. Probate can be a routine process and in some cases probate may be easier and cheaper than other options. A will does not prevent probate. A will on its own does not transfer property. The will must be submitted to...
One of the most important things in preparing your estate plan is naming the appropriate person to act as your Personal Representative (or Executor). Some people feel there is a “right” person to name, by virtue of relationship, birth order, or proximity – these reasons can lead to disastrous results if the wrong person is selected. A complete estate plan...
For parents with disabled children, whether minor or adult, it’s a good idea to take the extra step of meeting with a Minnesota special needs planning attorney. This gives you the opportunity to set up the best possible scenario for your child if you are no longer able to provide care for him or her on your own. For example, you will work with the special...
Minnesota attorneys are well aware of the hassles and headaches which families face when a loved one’s estate goes into probate. The process can drag out, eating up not just time but also resources that would have otherwise gone to beneficiaries. Appointed personal representatives find themselves with burdensome responsibilities which can compound their...