Law Brief: Alexis Gruttadauria and Rich Schoenstein Discuss Why You Need an Estate Plan
In the aftermath of Hurricane Florence in 2018, I wrote this article to help individuals and families navigate the legal and financial issues that often follow a devastating storm. I remember the incredible outpouring of...more
A complete estate plan includes essential documents such as a Health Care Proxy, Living Will, Power of Attorney, and Last Will & Testament, which are vital in protecting your medical, legal, and financial decisions. These...more
In the realm of estate planning, many people are familiar with the traditional will as a means of distributing assets after death. However, the inclusion of a revocable trust (also known as a living trust), which offers a...more
Creating a last will and testament is the first step in creating an estate plan – a critical planning tool to ensure that your wishes are honored and that your loved ones are cared for after your death....more
Guardians are a type of fiduciary appointed for a minor child or individual determined incapacitated by the courts. When appointed by a Last Will and Testament (“Will”), they are commonly known as testamentary guardians....more
When working with an attorney to prepare for your future and address the challenges associated with aging, you will likely come across the term “incapacitated.” Incapacitated Definition - Someone who is incapacitated...more
A standby Guardian is a person or persons you, the parent, or guardian, pre-ordains to be your preferred Guardian in the event of several triggering events. Obviously, a Will covers this in the event of death, but not in...more
The guardianship of an adult, in which a judge appoints an individual to make choices for a person over 18, is appropriate when the adult lacks capacity. Capacity is a general legal term that refers to a person’s cognitive...more
Say somebody close to you—a parent, a cousin, a friend—becomes incapacitated and is unable to make medical, financial or other personal decisions. If they have no planning documents in place (i.e., a power of attorney for...more
It can be difficult to talk with loved ones about protecting their assets or managing their financial affairs. Even if you have been assisting your loved ones with their finances for some time, it can be quite emotional and...more
Under the umbrella of probate litigation falls guardianship and conservatorship disputes, Will and trust contests, fights over family real estate and whether or not a gift was actually meant to be a gift. The most basic and...more
Planning for the end of one’s life, or potential incapacity, is probably something an individual in their 20’s, 30’s, or even 40’s does not want to contemplate. Even those in their later years might find it a difficult topic...more
Trusts and Estates Attorney Alexis Gruttadauria joins host and Litigation Partner Rich Schoenstein to discuss “Why You Need an Estate Plan” on the latest episode of Law Brief. Lexi and Rich delve into the legal disposition of...more
In This Issue: - Protect your will from legal challenges - Do you have questions about guardianship? - Covering all the bases: Both your business and estate plan can benefit from a buy-sell agreement - ESTATE...more
Virtually everyone needs an estate plan, but this isn’t a one-size-fits-all proposition. Even though each person’s situation is unique, general guidelines can be drawn depending on one’s current stage of life. This article...more