You cannot simply leave assets behind to minor children and beneficiaries. This is because some beneficiaries, like children younger than 18, are considered too young to inherit. Making a Will This is why you need to use one of the most basic estate planning tools known as a will to help you accomplish your goals… Read More »
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The Power of a Story, an Image, and Social Media By: Tiffany A. O’Connell
I quickly learned when I opened O’Connell Law in 2010 that marketing is needed to grow your practice so you can help more people. I didn’t learn about marketing in law school – As an attorney, shouldn’t those who need my help just know to reach out to me? Well, unless you let people know… Read More »
Power Of Attorney May Be Your First Used Estate Document
Most people think of the will as the cornerstone of their estate planning, but it is far more likely that you may need to activate a power of attorney document first. A durable general power of attorney is usually the document that your loved ones may need to take action if you are unable to… Read More »
Is a Living Will an Advanced Healthcare Directive?
If you’re just approaching estate planning for the first time, talk to an estate planning lawyer about important tools like a living will. Many people want to know if a living will is the same thing as an advanced healthcare directive. What Is a Living Will? A living will is a form of an advanced… Read More »
Should You Serve as the Personal Representative of Someone’s Will?
It can raise a lot of questions when a family member or friend invites you to be the personal representative of their will. They may assume that you are responsible, organized and capable of handling the fiduciary responsibility of managing their estate. This is an honor, but this is also a great deal of work…. Read More »
What Are the Most Important Planning Steps For Someone With Alzheimer’s To Take?
Legally there are many important issues to be considered when a loved one develops Alzheimer’s. If proper estate and long-term care planning have not already been completed, these should come to the top of the priority list. It is very normal for family members to feel overwhelmed by all of the aspects of legal planning,… Read More »
When Is Aging in Place the Right Fit for Your Elderly Loved One?
If you are helping an older parent or other elderly family member make decisions about their care, it’s very likely that they want to remain as independent as possible for as long as possible. Advantages of Aging in Place This is known as aging in place and means thinking carefully about whether or not leaving… Read More »
Elements That Every Young Adult Needs In Their Estate Plan
Estate planning is a vital process that every individual should undergo, regardless of their age or financial status. It’s a common misconception among young adults that they don’t need to worry about estate planning until they’re older or have acquired substantial assets. However, the truth is that everyone needs an estate plan, including young adults…. Read More »
What To Do If You Cannot Afford Out of Pocket Services for A Special Needs Child?
A special needs child will eventually grow up, but may still rely on important government programs and other forms of assistance to survive and thrive. Someone who has severe impairments may incur significant costs for health care, upwards of $100,000 per year. Understanding Special Needs Trusts Depending on the level of a person’s impairment, many… Read More »
How Might The State Estate Tax In Massachusetts Impact You?
Planning ahead for the future of your estate is important as it relates to your own retirement as well as what you hope to leave behind to your loved ones. When a state also assigns a state-level estate tax to your situation, you might need to make adjustments or consider advanced strategies to accomplish your… Read More »