Estate Planning

People in different stages of life have unique estate planning needs. New parents have different  priorities and concerns than people on the edge of retirement, for example. Many people stop after creating testamentary instruments. So long as they can control the...

If you are thinking about how to secure your family’s future, estate planning just became more important. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, recently passed by Congress, will permanently increase the federal estate and gift tax exemption, effective starting in 2025. This...

Many adults dislike the idea of estate planning. They know that it is necessary for their peace of mind and the protection of their families. However, they delay the process because they view it as unpleasant or expensive. Those who have wills and other estate...

No matter how close your family is, you can never predict the ability of money and coveted assets (whether monetarily valuable or not) to tear them apart after you’re gone. This can be avoided, or at least minimized, by simply putting some extra time and attention...

A will is an important document to secure a testator’s legacy. However, complications may arise when an estate plan only has a will, such as probate, challenges and estate taxes. A trust can be made to protect an inheritance.  A trust is an arrangement with a grantor...

Becoming a parent means taking on a broad assortment of responsibilities. Parents have the daunting task of keeping a newborn alive. They also have to consistently meet the basic needs of their children. Parents have a legal obligation to provide shelter, nutrition...

Ancillary probate is a secondary probate process that occurs when someone owns property in more than one state at the time of their passing. While primary probate is conducted in the state where the deceased resided, ancillary probate may be required for assets...

Creating a will is a crucial step when estate planning. It helps to ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes after your death. For residents of Colorado, there are specific considerations and legal requirements to be aware of. In Colorado, a...

Anyone who’s creating an estate plan generally needs to consider how to hand down their assets in a way that benefits their loved ones. For some, an estate plan includes a will, as well as trusts. A trust is a legal entity that holds assets and then passes them down...

Too often, people don’t include their pets in their estate plan because a relative or friend has promised they’ll take them in if they outlive their person. Others just assume a family member will take them. Anyone who works in an animal shelter or rescue organization...