Author Archives: Jeff McKenna
The Best Way to Receive an Inheritance
Getting an inheritance in trust may be the best way to get (or give) an inheritance.
Second Marriages Later in Life
The best way to ensure that one’s assets are available for a surviving spouse but ultimately distributed to one’s children from a prior marriage is through the use of a trust.
State to State Estate Planning
Relocating to a new state often creates issues affecting estate planning. Many people wonder if they need a new will or trust when they move from one state to another. Although a will or trust validly executed in one state should be valid in a different state, it is a good idea to have the estate planning documents reviewed. By addressing issues related to the relocation, an individual can avoid certain problems and maximize possible benefits.
Estate Planning: No Contest Clause
In order to discourage disappointed heirs from disputing your estate plan, you can include a “no-contest” provision that automatically cancels an heir’s inheritance if he or she challenges the distribution of your assets in any way.
Changing Your Will or Trust
Although no one wants to create problems between beneficiaries of the estate, even small handwritten changes can create great problems.
Estate Planning: Owing More Than You Own
When formulating your estate plan, it is possible to add all your assets and debts and find that you owe more than you own. Don’t panic: here is some helpful advice.
What is Probate?
Probate is one of the least understood of court processes. However, it is a procedure that can affect the family and heirs of every mature adult following his or her death.
Discussing Estate Planning with Loved Ones
I always advise my clients to let their family members know that they have done estate planning and where the documents are located. At a minimum … family members must know that planning has been done.
Family Planning: Helping With Ill Will
If you die without a will or trust, a court will decide … who will inherit your property. The result could well be contrary to your wishes.
Elder Abuse and Prevention
Caring for older people can be a difficult and stress-provoking task. More than two-thirds of elder abuse perpetrators are family members of the victims, typically serving in a caregiving role.
