The doctor says it will be a matter of weeks. Is there anything more I need to know or do? This week I had the privilege of saying goodbye to a dear client. As he faced his last days on…
Other than living wills and health care powers of attorneys I find most individuals are not well equipped to prepare their own wills, revocable trusts and financial powers of attorneys. But my view is undoubtedly jaded by the fact not…
What does this require of me? Under a general financial power of attorney you will be appointed to represent your step-father, the principal, with respect to his financial affairs. This means you are in a fiduciary relationship and held to…
What can I do to ensure he is protected today, tomorrow and beyond my life? Today you can love him and reach out to his parents to let them know they have your full support. One in 88 children born…
How does one work with a lawyer? Interesting analogy. The best way to have a successful relationship with your attorney is: First, select an attorney that focuses his or her practice in the area of law you need help. Check…
When I die who or what process will be used to pay my debts? When we die a new legal entity emerges, called a “Decedent’s Estate”. Sometimes all assets are held jointly with a spouse and the spouse voluntarily takes…
But as my largest asset I want to be sure I can leave it to my three children and avoid probate. What should I do? Individual retirement accounts or IRAs were often overlooked or disregarded when estate planning was undertaken,…
Actually 46 states now allow pet trusts, including South Carolina, but you can’t leave monies and assets directly to the pet. A decade ago only 4 states allowed pet trusts. In December of 2011, 94-year-old Italian heiress Maria Assunta, who…
Here is my list of favorites: Disclaimer: Information contained in this column is meant to be of general information on frequently asked questions concerning disability, elder law, estate planning and probate law, and does not contain specific legal advice to…
A recent medical scare has caused me to pause and now consider planning a priority. Any words of wisdom before I do a will? About 73% of parents have no will and some that do are unaware that their kids…
