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 biggest threat to your wealth isn't a lack of insurance, but the “false sense of security” that insurance provides. Many families and business owners in Monticello believe that a comprehensive policy is a bulletproof shield. In reality, insurance is just one tool in a much larger toolkit. While it's essential for handling accidents, it was never...
“I just want to avoid probate.” We hear this often. While bypassing the public, costly, and time-consuming probate process is a major win, it's only the tip of the iceberg. Truly effective estate planning in Monticello is not just a set of “death documents” but a blueprint for security, clarity, and protecting your legacy while you're still here. Is...
One of the most common questions we hear from families in Minnesota is: "How much money do I need to have before a Living Trust makes sense?" The honest answer often surprises people: There is no minimum. A Living Trust is not a luxury item reserved for the wealthy. It is a practical tool, and as a Monticello trust lawyer, I want to clear up the...
For most older adults, the goal is clear: Stay home. Stay independent. Stay in the place that holds the memories, the routines, and the life they've built. Aging in place is not just a preference; For many people, it is the plan. What is less clear is what that plan actually requires in order to work. Because aging in place is not simply a lifestyle...
When creating a trust, you face a critical decision: Do you want your beneficiaries to receive guaranteed checks, or do you want your trustee to decide when and if they get paid? The latter is called discretionary authority, and while it sounds strict, it's often the kindest way to protect your wealth and your family from unintended consequences. What Is...
When you're planning for a child or grandchild with special needs, your goal isn't just leaving money behind—it's ensuring they enjoy a high quality of life while protecting their access to essential government benefits like Medicaid and SSI. A Special Needs Trust (SNT) is designed to provide for those extras that government programs don't cover, but how...
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...
Estate plans are built around assumptions. The assumption that your spouse will be there. That your sibling will outlive you. That the person you named as your primary beneficiary fifteen years ago will still be alive to receive what you left them. Sometimes those assumptions don't hold. When a named heir predeceases you and your plan doesn't account for...
One of the most persistent myths in estate planning is that living trusts are reserved for the ultra-wealthy. The reality? If you own a home, have a retirement account, or want to keep your family out of court, you likely have enough to justify a trust. In fact, middle-class families often need a trust more than the wealthy because they can least afford...
We often think of estate planning as something for traditional nuclear families, but in 2026, love and family look different for everyone. Relationships are complex, beautiful, and sometimes messy. The law, however, tends to be rigid. It has a default plan for you, but that default rarely accounts for modern relationships. Here's how to ensure your plan...
It can be difficult to plan for the future, especially for a time when you’re not able to make certain decisions for yourself. The idea can be tough to swallow, even if you’ve experienced it with older relatives and know of the possibilities. However, planning ahead is the key to staying in control and making life as easy as possible for your loved ones in...
Asset protection strategies help keep your money out of the hands of nursing homes, litigators, and other financial predators. Keep reading to learn about five of the best asset protection strategies to help you keep your money right where it is. Create an Irrevocable TrustExperienced Minnesota estate planning attorneys often recommend trusts for many...