Category: Estate Disputes

After someone dies, the property they leave behind becomes an asset of their estate. It can be any type of asset, including land, homes, jewelry or money. A will determines how those assets are distributed. To administer the estate, an executor is appointed by the court, usually designated by the decedent in the will. The […]

When a family member dies suddenly, it creates chaos in nearly every family. More often than not, disputes over property and money only intensify the grief everyone is already suffering. As older adults, it’s likely that we’ve taken steps to minimize that risk, such as maintaining an up-to-date will and setting up a family trust. […]

If something were to happen to your spouse, do you know what assets and liabilities you have? For many women in the Baby Boomer Generation, the terrifying yet all too common answer is “no.” Oftentimes, couples write the first version of their will when they are starting a family and then revise it a decade […]

Every parent wants to make sure their children will be taken care of if the unthinkable were to happen, and many grandparents or other family members often want their wills to include bequests to the younger generations in the family. However, there are special issues to consider when leaving assets to minors. Good intentions with […]

While Hollywood has glamorized disinheriting a child or grandchild, the decision to exclude someone from your will is quite complicated and emotional. There are four common reasons for removing an heir from your will: A pattern of behavior indicates the inheritance will be misused and/or cause added risk to the beneficiary’s life (for example, providing […]

The loss of a loved one is often one of the most trying times you will experience in your life. From making funeral arrangements and navigating through the stages of grief to managing and settling the estate, it is easy for disputes to arise between family members. Fortunately, a majority of the disputes can be […]

As our society ages, there is naturally a rising concern over the physical, emotional, and financial security of our family members. With changes in technology, we are now conducting more business and financial management digitally. As a result, you should consider how you would protect your digital assets in your estate plan. Who will have […]

Estate planning is a topic many people avoid because of its direct link to mortality; however, it is important to prepare and plan for your future heirs. Enlisting the services of a qualified estate planning attorney will save your loved ones time, money and sanity when it comes to settling your estate. But, hiring the […]

When a loved one passes away, it’s a difficult time for everyone involved. But often executors and beneficiaries are able to come together over a common goal: preserving the deceased’s legacy. Even so, it is not uncommon for disputes to arise between beneficiaries and executors during the administration and distribution of an estate. At times, […]

As our parents and family members age, there is inevitably a growing concern over their physical, emotional, and financial wellbeing. Oftentimes, these aging individuals require assistance paying their bills and managing their finances, and they turn to a trusted family member, friend, or caregiver for help. This is both common and appropriate. Often, they go […]