Estate planning can be simple or complex, depending on your circumstances. If you have significant assets, you should ensure your wishes are honored, and your loved ones are protected from potential disputes. Planning ahead can do just that. Why do disputes happen?...
carmen.reyes-wolfe@thomsonreuters.com
How to have “the talk” with your parents about estate planning
Discussing estate planning with parents is never easy, but for adult children, it is a topic that almost always comes up—or at least, it should. Parents should have this crucial conversation with their children to ensure their wishes are honored and that there are no...
Probate: basic information you should know
Many people have heard the term "probate," but they do not know exactly what it means. They may associate it with end-of-life matters and having a will but not know any intricate details. Probate is a legal process that happens after a person dies. This legal process...
Can you exclude your adult child from your will or estate plan?
When you are deciding about your estate plan, specifically who your beneficiaries will be, you may decide to exclude an adult child from your will. It is uncommon, but it happens. Usually, the reasons for excluding an adult child from the will are that the parent and...
Can you leave your spouse out of your will?
When you are planning your estate and putting together all required documents, including your will, decide who to include in your will. It does not happen often but sometimes this question comes up—which is why it is so critical to begin the estate planning process...
5 essential tips for crafting your estate plan
Creating an estate plan is a thoughtful and important step in securing your family’s future. Whether you are just starting out or thinking of updating your estate plan, here are five key considerations to keep in mind as you embark on this journey. Define your goals...
Is avoiding probate a smart move for your estate?
Nobody likes the idea of jumping through legal hoops, especially when passing on what you have worked hard for. For this reason, it is important to understand what the legal process of probate is and why it is important to consider it in your estate planning....
What is a special needs trust in Pennsylvania?
Caring for a loved one with special needs requires thoughtful planning and hard work, especially when it comes to ensuring their long-term financial stability and well-being. Pennsylvania families have the option of creating a special needs trust to protect and...
How to ensure your will is valid in Pennsylvania
Ensuring your will is valid is critical for the court and your loved ones to respect your final wishes after you pass away. Every state has laws regarding the validity of wills, and Pennsylvania is no exception. To ensure your will is valid in Pennsylvania, keep the...
Do I need a power of attorney, and how do I create one?
A power of attorney is a document that permits a person to act upon another person's behalf, usually in health, finances and business decisions. There are different kinds of powers of attorney, ranging from a limited power of attorney to a very comprehensive one,...