"Knives Out" isn't the typical big-budget, action-packed film that's popular these days. Instead, it turns a topic that most people find pretty dull (estate planning and wills) and turns it into something truly interesting.It's also surprisingly accurate. Without...
Estate Planning
Can you keep your heirs from losing an inheritance in divorce?
If you're a grandparent developing your estate plan, you may choose to leave some of your assets directly to your grandchildren rather than leave it to their parents to pass on a portion of their inheritance.Whether your grandchildren are toddlers or young adults, you...
Why people don’t even talk about estate planning
There's an interesting issue in the United States where everyone knows they'll need an estate plan, but many people never write a will. Similarly, children often understand that their parents need to talk to them about estate planning -- four out of five people...
How do you prevent someone from contesting your will?
When creating a will, it's important to think about what will happen upon your death. More specifically, there are steps you can take now to prevent someone from contesting your will in the future.Here are several things you can do:Create your estate plan as soon as...
Do these things when choosing an executor or trustee
As you create your estate plan, you'll soon realize that you have to involve many other people. For example, if you're creating a will, you need to name an executor. And if you're creating a trust, you're required to choose a trustee.An executor or trustee is the...
Anyone can make these estate planning mistakes
Estate planning is not something most people look forward to. In fact, it may be something you continue to put off. Although it'll bring you face-to-face with some important questions, it's critical to dive in at the appropriate time.Here are five estate planning...
3 common myths regarding estate planning
Estate planning myths can cause a lot of problems. People often buy into what they hear casually, even if they never got legal advice or did any deep research on their own. This can lead to critical mistakes that they regret later in life.To help you avoid this...
Considering the benefits of an estate plan
You have probably heard people saying that you need an estate plan. Perhaps your grown children are urging you to consider more comprehensive preparation for the end of your life, but you are not quite convinced that it is worth the trouble to make a plan.Everyone has...
Can you challenge a person’s will?
A loved one passed away. When the will was presented, you were shocked. You could not believe it was accurate. Can you contest it?Possibly. Two groups of people typically have a legal right to do so: Close relatives Courts do not want distant relatives challenging a...
No such thing as speeding through probate
After a family member has died, you certainly need some time to grieve and remember. You may find it comforting to look through your relative's photo albums and discover hidden treasures in dresser drawers and on closet shelves. However, after time passes, you are...