Unfortunately, far too many celebrity estate planning mistakes were completely avoidable but became a matter of public record due to the way in which the celebrity planned or failed to plan for their future. Amy Winehouse, Prince, and Aretha Franklin are just a few examples of unfortunate estate planning failures. However, when Burt Reynolds passed… Read More »
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Understanding Medicaid’s Five Year Look Back Period
Congress has established a variety of rules about ineligibility for Medicaid. In addition to these federal rules, there are also issues you should be aware of at the state level. The ineligibility period for Medicaid is also referred to as a penalty period. This specifically relates to applicants who transferred assets shortly before applying in… Read More »
What Services Does an Elder Law Attorney Provide?
There are several reasons you might want to form a relationship with a lawyer who has experience in both estate planning and elder law. As your life evolves, what you need from an attorney could change, especially as you look towards retirement. Most elder law attorneys help you with a variety of legal concerns related… Read More »
Do You Have Your Most Important Papers Protected?
The news has been filled with plenty of stories about devastating and tragic events that have forced people out of their homes suddenly. This is why it’s so important for everyone to have a plan for how they will access their important documents and information if they are suddenly forced out of the home and… Read More »
What Are Executor Fees?
When establishing a person in the role of executor, it’s common to have questions about how this could impact the overall assets inside your estate. Executors are entitled to fees, and this could decrease the volume of assets available for beneficiaries after all estate payments are made. Executor fees are in place to compensate a… Read More »
Durable Power of Attorney Vs. Advanced Directive
Many different documents might be recommended to you by your experienced estate planning lawyer and it can become confusing to understand which is which. Two of the most commonly confused forms are known as a durable power of attorney and an advanced directive, and these each accomplish distinct goals. What is a Durable Power of… Read More »
What Are a Will Executor’s Responsibilities in Massachusetts?
Since your will’s Personal Representative (formerly known as an Executor) holds an important position in the distribution of your estate, you need to put careful thought into the selection of this agent. If a will submitted to probate court names an Personal Representative, the court awards that person “letters testamentary.” This is the official paperwork… Read More »
Does It Matter Who Witnesses My Will Signing?
While an individual can write his or her own will, it’s far too easy for mistakes to be made that could lead to loved ones paying the price after you have passed away. While we personally suggest that an individual retain a knowledgeable attorney to prepare their will so that the will is drafted and… Read More »
What’s the Real Meaning of Your Estate Plan?
An estate plan does encompass what you intend to happen to your belongings after you pass away, but this often leaves out the important consideration of what you intend to happen while you’re still alive. The best and most comprehensive estate plans consider what you want to do while you’re still here and the legacy… Read More »
These Are the Biggest Estate Planning Mistakes Made by Divorcing Women
Women getting a divorce have many different things to contemplate and think about. Divorce is never an easy time and can be a significant adjustment for most people. Women in particular find that they are most significantly affected by the financial aspects of divorce. A recent study completed by UBS Global Wealth Management showed that… Read More »