Guardianships
Choosing a guardian for your children is one of the most important decisions you can make. Without a legal designation, the court will decide who will care for your children if you’re unable to do so—a process that may not align with your wishes.
Trust funding checklist
When you create your Revocable Trust, it is important to “fund” your trust, ie: title assets in the name of the trust. Here's a checklist for assets to consider when retitling into the name of a revocable trust, and for those where you may designate the trust as a beneficiary. This list will help streamline the process of funding the trust effectively and ensure assets are correctly designated. Michelle Goff Law will assist at the time the trust is created with all of your real estate. Should you wish for assistance with your other assets, please contact us for pricing information.
This is important to revisit over the years to make sure you haven’t purchased new real estate or opened new bank or financial accounts. If you don’t “fund” your trust, there could be a probate at your death which is what you are trying to avoid by having a trust.
A Compassionate Guide: Steps to Take After the Loss of a Loved One
A Compassionate Guide: Steps to Take After the Loss of a Loved One
Losing someone dear is never easy. During such an emotional time, it can feel overwhelming to manage the practical tasks that follow. This guide is designed to help you navigate these responsibilities step-by-step, so you can focus on healing while ensuring everything is handled with care.
What Happens If You Die Without a Will?
INo Will? Here’s What Happens to Your Estate
When it comes to planning for the future, many people delay writing a will, often underestimating the consequences of passing away without one. If you die without a valid will in place—a situation legally known as "intestate"—the distribution of your assets and the management of your estate may not go as you would have wished.
Let’s explore what happens when you die without a will and how it could impact your loved ones.
Ethical Letters: What Is It And Why Its Important
With a New Year, we are often more introspective about our life. This can be a great time to write a "legacy letter,". This documents, also known as an "ethical will" or "spiritual will," is a way for individuals to communicate their values, beliefs, life lessons, and personal reflections to their loved ones. Unlike a traditional will, which primarily focuses on the distribution of assets and property, a legacy letter is more concerned with passing on intangible aspects of a person's life.
Navigating the Complexities of Estate Planning in a Blended Family
Estate planning is a crucial financial step for every individual or family, regardless of their unique circumstances. However, when a family is blended—comprising stepchildren, stepparents, and half-siblings—estate planning can become considerably more complex. The complexities stem from the potential for conflicts of interest and misunderstandings among family members.