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.
Many people assume that when they need help later in life, a spouse, child, or close friend will step in. But that assumption is becoming increasingly risky. Today, more than 16 million Americans over age 65 live alone, and most have no formal plan for long-term care or decision-making support as they age. Longer lifespans, higher divorce rates, and...
Caring for an aging parent is one of the most meaningful acts of love an adult child can offer. However, it can also be one of the most overwhelming responsibilities you will ever take on. Most families step into caregiving suddenly after a fall, a stroke, a new dementia diagnosis, or simply because a parent can no longer safely live alone. When this shift...
Placing a loved one in a nursing home or assisted living facility is never an easy decision. Families trust these facilities to provide safety, dignity, and proper care. Unfortunately, nursing home abuse and neglect occur in Minnesota far more often than many people realize—even in facilities that appear clean, well-staffed, and reputable.While most...
As a will lawyer in Minnesota, I often receive urgent calls from families with loved ones in the hospital. They're concerned about getting legal documents in place quickly, especially if their loved one's condition might deteriorate. It's a delicate situation that requires immediate attention, but many wonder how to proceed when their family member can't...
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...
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...
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...
If you're in a position where it's time to make some decisions about caring for an aging parent or other relative, you may be feeling pretty overwhelmed with all of the available options. Ideally, your elderly parent had the opportunity to make their own wishes known with a Minnesota elder law attorney and set aside some funding for their own...
Retirement accounts, such as 401(k)s and IRAs, are often significant components of your financial portfolio. But do you know who will inherit these funds when you pass away? It's a crucial aspect of estate planning that deserves attention. Here, a Minnesota inheritance lawyer offers expert insight into how retirement accounts are handled after your...
During the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease, your mom or dad will likely need help managing his or her financial and personal affairs. If your parent already has a Power of Attorney or living will in place, a new diagnosis of dementia should cause you to take a fresh look at those documents, especially if they do not reflect your parent’s current...
When the time comes to consider assisted living for a loved one in Minnesota, families often find themselves with a list of questions and concerns. It's a big transition, and understanding the financial implications is crucial. Here's where a Minnesota elder lawyer can offer clarity and guidance to help you make informed decisions. Will Assisted...
When a loved one enters hospice care, it can be a difficult and overwhelming experience. One of the most important things to consider is estate planning—which can help ensure that your loved one’s wishes are honored and surviving family members are financially cared for. The following steps can help caregivers more smoothly navigate legal issues that arise...