Not only do I write Wills, I also see a lot of homemade Wills. All Wills are not the same and while there are some similarities, each situation requires thought and detail in the way their affairs are handled. Homemade or Will forms can cause many issues, so I thought I would present you …
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or making a change in lifestyle, purchasing a home is a major milestone. With that comes new responsibilities. In this week’s column I will address the steps you should take regarding those responsibilities. Be sure to update your address with key agencies. After settling into your new home, one of your first …
Continue reading “Important Estate Planning Steps for New Homeowners”
The inheritance you leave could be eaten away by taxes or given to the wrong person(s). This week, I will try to provide tips to avoid this. Everyone should have the basic estate plan components. A life insurance policy, a Will, a designation of agent to control disposition of remains, a durable power of attorney …
Farming and ranching aren’t just jobs. They’re a way of life, often passed down through generations. But without a proper estate plan in place, that legacy can slip away, sometimes in just one generation. All too often, land that’s been in a family for decades is sold off and developed, simply because no one made …
Thinking about our own death is not an easy subject, especially if you have children. Imagining someone else raising your children feels unimaginable. It’s emotional, it’s uncomfortable, and it’s the last thing you want to picture. But as a parent, it’s a conversation you must have, and a decision you need to make. Because if …
Estate planning can be complex, especially when you own property in multiple states. This can raise various legal considerations, potentially complicate the probate process, and increase the administrative burden on your heirs. Understanding the nuances of managing such a diverse portfolio can help streamline the process and ensure your assets are distributed according to your …
Continue reading “Ownership of Out of State Property in Estate Planning”
This week I thought I would provide a list of what you should pull together after a loved one dies. Sometimes it is tough when you are dealing with grief and all the events related to funerals or celebrations of life. My hope is this provides a quick and easy reminder to keep you focused. …
I missed getting an article out in September on Alzheimer’s disease, September is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. However, this is a subject close to my heart because my father, Oliver James Moak, suffered from this condition. Over time, the disease can change a loved one into a seemingly different person. Caring for a loved one with …
While it is rare, there are sad situations in which families fight after someone dies. Even more rare are disputes that arise between parents and their children while still living. Most people have been raised to be respectful to their parents and elders. However, in today’s world, I fear respect is becoming a preciously rare …
After the Last Will and Testament, power of attorneys, and medical directives are created and the other crucial estate planning components are addressed, take some time to consider your unique family situation and the details that would make the transition more difficult to navigate following a death. As anyone who has lost a spouse or …
