Most adults understand that estate planning is an important task. They want to provide support and guidance for their loved ones after their passing. However, a large percentage of people procrastinate about estate planning. Researchers in recent years have determined...
Most people carefully plan who receives their physical assets, like the house or car, after they pass away. However, even in today’s digital age, many still forget to consider what happens to their online presence and digital data when they die. Why digital estate...
Minnesota estate plans often begin with testamentary instruments. People draft wills or establish trusts to control the descent of their property after they die. They can select personal representatives and guardians to care for their children. These basic steps help...
All adults need at least the basic documents essential for estate planning — a simple will, an advanced directive (or living will) and a medical power of attorney. Of course, the older you get and the more items of value you acquire during your lifetime, the more your...
A loved one passed away recently, and their estate is in probate. That process is being managed by the estate’s executor (known under the law as the “personal representative” of the estate), whom your loved one designated in their estate plan or the court appointed....
Most of us wonder how anyone could be so callous as to cheat a senior citizen out of their life savings. Unfortunately, there are plenty of unscrupulous people who would do just that. If you have elderly parents, you likely worry about them and wonder how you can...
One of the best ways to plan for your family’s future after you pass away is to draft an estate plan. This provides guidance and instructions, telling your family what you would’ve wanted. It can address things like medical care, end-of-life care, the division of...
Knowing you have a will in place can give you incredible peace of mind. Keeping it safe from a challenge or contest feels even better. A common reason for will contests is family concerns about the testator's mental soundness. This could be a particular risk if your...
Arguably, the most important document in an estate plan is a will. A will is a legal document that instructs your last wishes, including who is responsible for distributing your assets and who should benefit from your estate. A will is not the only document you can...
An estate plan provides an opportunity for a testator to create a legacy. Many testators try to maximize the value of the assets that they pass to their loved ones, possibly by proactively planning for taxes, debts and other liabilities that could diminish the value...
