Estate planning, elder law, family transitions, business planning – the legal issues that affect your family are always evolving. Jennifer writes regularly to keep you informed, educated, and empowered. Browse the latest articles below, or search by topic to find what you’re looking for.
One common misconception when it comes to estate planning is the belief that one must have significant assets to establish a comprehensive plan. As an estate lawyer in Minnesota, I'm here to tell you that this simply isn't the case. In fact, life insurance can play a crucial role in your estate planning, even if your existing assets are modest.How Life...
There are many benefits to creating a Revocable Living Trust as part of your estate plan, such as the ability to avoid probate and put a quick end to the estate administration process. However, creating a Revocable Living Trust will not automatically accomplish your goals. Instead, after the trust is created, you’ll need to start the process...
As a single parent, it is critically important to have a comprehensive estate plan that protects your child(ren). Obviously, being the sole or primary caregiver doesn't leave you with much time on your hands. However, putting some time aside to meet with an estate planning attorney can give you some peace of mind. By having an estate plan in place,...
As we age, companionship and shared responsibilities become more valuable. Many seniors are choosing cohabitation over solitude for mutual support and to cut costs. However, this arrangement brings about some legal nuances that need addressing. Here, our Minnesota will attorney delve into the necessary legal steps for unmarried seniors living...
If you're worried about the possibility that you or a loved one could become ill, injured, or worse, you're not alone. No matter what we do we can't control everything and sometimes things happen. While none of us can predict the future, getting your affairs in order now can provide peace of mind and a sense of control. Here are the basic steps...
In the event of a medical emergency, it's crucial to have your healthcare documents readily accessible and ensure that your treatment preferences are known to emergency personnel. Our Minnesota estate attorney has put together this article to discuss the benefits of carrying your directives with you and offer tips on effectively communicating your wishes...
A comprehensive healthcare directive, which is an essential part of your estate plan, includes:A Living Will;Healthcare Agent Designation; andA HIPAA Medical Release. The older we get the more health issues are likely to occur, and without the proper legal documentation, we might not get the care we need. One area our estate lawyer in Minnesota...
A trust is a valuable estate planning tool that offers flexibility and control over the distribution of your assets. One essential aspect of managing a trust is opening a bank account in its name. This article will explore the key factors to consider when opening a trust bank account, including the required documentation, account types, and potential tax...
Estate planning is an essential process for anyone looking to secure their assets and protect their loved ones. One often overlooked aspect of estate planning is the prenuptial agreement, which is an invaluable tool for protecting individual assets and ensuring a smooth distribution of assets in the event of a divorce or separation. In this blog post, we...
Have you recently completed your estate plan with a Monticello will and trust lawyer? Congratulations! The hardest part is done. While you work to tie up any loose ends or “fund” your trust if necessary, now is also the time to give serious thought as to where you will store your original documents. Remember, if the documents you worked so hard to...
In recent years, there has been a growing trend of people tattooing their medical wishes on their bodies, including "Do Not Resuscitate" (DNR) directives. While it might seem like a creative and potentially effective way to express one's wishes, relying on a tattoo as a legally binding document is risky and could lead to confusion and misinterpretation. As...
Estate planning often revolves around leaving assets to family members, but what if you want to leave your estate to someone who isn't related to you? Many people have close friends, caretakers, or even charitable organizations that hold a special place in their hearts. In this blog post, our Minnesota will and trust attorneys will explore the essential...