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.
As a single parent, your plate is already full. You're juggling work, childcare, school activities, and maybe even a bit of "me time" (if you're lucky!). It's understandable that estate planning might not be at the top of your to-do list.But let's face it: one of the biggest worries for single parents is, "What would happen to my children if something...
While most people have heard of a basic Last Will and Testament, they may not know what a Pour-Over Will is and how it works with a Living Trust. As a Minnesota will lawyer, I’d like to explain this estate planning tool.Essentially, a Pour-Over Will is used in conjunction with a Living Trust, either Revocable or Irrevocable, and directs that any assets you...
Many Americans unknowingly own mineral rights, or have the potential to inherit them. These rights encompass resources like oil, gas, precious metals, and more. Even if you don't live in a traditionally "mineral-rich" area, these rights can be passed down through generations, creating a surprise windfall, or posing a complex estate planning challenge.What...
As a Minnesota will lawyer, I often find that people associate the phrase “estate planning” with the task of making final plans and ensuring that loved ones are provided for after death. While we all want to make sure that our families are taken care of when we're no longer with them, planning for incapacity that can happen during one’s lifetime is one...
Dealing with the loss of a spouse is one of the most difficult situations a person can face. The grief alone can be crippling and adding to the stress is the need to deal with funeral arrangements and any other tasks that may have arisen during your spouse’s final illness. And if you’re like most married couples in the United States, you’ve probably also...
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...
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...