Author: Tim O'Brien

When creating a will, one crucial decision is selecting an executor—the person who will manage your estate upon your death. Many people decide to appoint co-executors, entrusting this role to multiple individuals. Though this can be a good decision in some ways, it also has serious legal consequences. Being aware of these consequences can help […]

Estate planning is important for everyone, though it is far more significant for unmarried couples. In contrast to married couples, where many rights and protections occur automatically under the law, an unmarried partner has to take conscious action in order to make sure their wishes are observed and that the other partner is protected. Unless […]

Estate planning involves a wide range of tools and strategies that work to protect your assets and ensure they are distributed according to your wishes. One such tool is a spendthrift trust, which can offer very unique benefits for beneficiaries who may struggle with financial management or face external financial pressures. But what exactly is […]

The process of planning for the future goes beyond mere preparation for the distribution of your wealth; rather, it is an opportunity to create a lasting legacy that reflects your values and secures the financial well-being of your family for generations to come. A well-considered legacy plan protects your assets, communicates your wishes, provides for […]

​Dying intestate, or without a valid will, can have profound implications for an individual’s estate and their loved ones.​ The distribution of assets, guardianship decisions, and emotional burdens are significant factors influenced by intestacy laws. 1. Definition of Intestacy Intestacy occurs when a person dies without leaving a legal will. In this situation, the deceased’s […]

Estate planning is a crucial step in ensuring that your assets are distributed according to your wishes and that your loved ones are cared for after your passing. With various estate planning tools available, selecting the right ones can be challenging. Here’s a guide to help you evaluate and choose the tools that best fit […]

Contesting a will involves a structured legal process initiated by interested parties who believe the will does not accurately reflect the deceased’s intentions.​ This process typically requires filing a petition in probate court, establishing legal standing, and presenting valid grounds for the contest. It can be complex and often necessitates the assistance of a qualified […]

An estate planning audit is a comprehensive evaluation of your current estate planning documents and strategies. It helps ensure that these documents reflect your current wishes and comply with applicable laws. Given that life circumstances such as marriages, divorces, births, and changes in financial status can significantly impact your estate plan, conducting regular audits is […]

DIY estate planning may initially seem like a cost-effective approach, but it often leads to significant legal issues and complications. Individuals who attempt to create their estate plans without professional guidance frequently encounter problems that can undermine their intentions and lead to costly mistakes. 1. Gap in Legal Knowledge One of the most crucial risks […]

Probate is the legal process that occurs after someone passes away, involving the validation of their will, inventorying assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing the remaining assets to heirs. While necessary in some cases, probate can be time-consuming, stressful, and costly. Fortunately, with careful estate planning, you can significantly reduce or even eliminate probate […]