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.
When most people think about estate planning tools such as power of attorney, they imagine that they are solely for people who already have children, who have significant assets, or who are nearing the end of their lives. However, you may be surprised to know that many Minnesota estate planning lawyers also recommend that college students have powers of...
Estate planning covers more than death and taxes; for many people, it’s about maintaining their “voice” and clearly outlining their wishes in the event of incapacity or disability in Minnesota. Far too many people assume that their loved ones know their wishes and are prepared to honor them if a medical crisis strikes. Unfortunately, tragic accidents or...
In the early part of 2022, many young families spent a lot of time watching Disney’s award-winning animated film Encanto. Repeatedly. While the movie is obviously a great source of entertainment for kids, estate planning attorneys have also noticed that it contains a lot of valuable lessons that can help people prepare for their family’s future. Treat Each...
Because your life changes, so must your estate plan. As a Monticello estate planning lawyer, I recommend that everyone reviews their estate plan every 3 to 5 years because life events that you might not even think about could impact how your estate plan works. While this periodic review is important, there are certain life events that should trigger...
Many seniors often have difficulty managing their finances at a certain point, and it comes down to their adult children to assist with these matters. It’s important to know what you’re getting into when you begin assisting an elderly parent with their financial affairs, especially if legal intervention is required. To start, you’ll need to examine your...
Granting someone power of attorney means that you are giving them the authority to make important decisions on your behalf should you be incapable of making them yourself. The scope, duration, and other specifics are up to you. While the laws vary in each state, it's usually as simple as drafting a document or filling out a form and then signing it in...
The national news has been filled with tragedy lately, including acts of senseless violence committed against random strangers. Families and communities across the nation are mourning the loss of their loved ones and doing what they can to help the survivors. While most people are wondering if such a tragic event could ever happen in their own towns,...
As 2020 draws to a close, it may be time to take a fresh look at your financial and legal documents to ensure that your affairs are in order and that you are ending the year on a solid foundation This is especially important if you’ve experienced any notable life or financial changes, such as the purchase or sale of real estate, the birth or adoption of a...
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...
What really happens if you don’t create a will, trust, or other estate planning documents and essentially keep your head in the sand? Any Monticello estate attorney will tell you, the honest truth is that you make things much harder, more costly, and more time-consuming for your loved ones if something happens to you. You might lose flexibility and lose...
Minnesota estate planning lawyers are often asked by their clients to explain what comprises a basic estate plan. Unfortunately, there’s no simple answer to this question because an estate plan all depends on the situation and the needs of the individual. For instance, a basic estate plan for one person might include a Revocable Living Trust, while for...
Surviving this world as a young, single adult can prove hazardous to your health. Not only do insurance companies charge a premium for auto insurance, but you’re relegated to crummy apartments with non-responsive landlords, loud neighbors, and beer cans in the front yard. You’re struggling to balance school, work, and the multiple demands of authority...