Law Brief: Alexis Gruttadauria and Rich Schoenstein Discuss Why You Need an Estate Plan
Much has been written about courts invalidating instruments or transactions after a person’s death. Courts invalidating instruments or transactions during a person’s lifetime is discussed less often. A mechanism for doing so...more
Estate planning is a crucial process for anyone looking to protect their family and assets, but for families with a loved one who has special needs, it requires additional considerations. Without proper planning, a...more
Especially in the beginning stages of building a family, legal documentation is not often top of mind. However, for young families, establishing a comprehensive estate plan is an important and proactive step toward...more
Careful planning for a loved one with disabilities is one of the most important and compassionate acts you can take as a parent or caregiver. It’s not just about securing their financial future, it’s about preserving their...more
Recent years have seen an unprecedented rollback of many hard-won civil rights for LGBTQ+ Iowans at the state and federal levels. There are several ways LGBTQ+ Iowans can protect and empower themselves and their loved ones...more
Careful planning for the future of a loved one with disabilities is crucial. Consider using legal entities such as a special needs trust to protect their ability to qualify for government benefits while meeting their...more
Estate planning is not a task that often comes to mind for those who are newlyweds or those parents who are in the midst of raising young children. Either you’re still enjoying the post-wedding excitement and promise of a new...more
It’s always wise to hope for the best but plan for the worst, and, with global rates of dementia on the increase, planning for incapacity should be part of everyone's wealth and succession strategy. Where the assets held...more
In the late 19th century, death was almost fashionable. Funerals were well attended and even rivaled weddings in their splendor and expense. Department stores offered an array of luxury clothing for grieving mothers and...more
Divorce is a major life change that affects far more than just your relationship status. One crucial—but often overlooked—aspect that needs immediate attention after a divorce is your estate plan. Failing to update your...more
In Arizona, spring is when the sun shines brightly, and the temperatures are perfect for enjoying outdoor activities. As much as we love the spring warmth, it is important to remember that with all that sunshine comes the...more
For newly married couples and those starting a family, estate planning is often thought of as something to address later in life. However, as discussed by Dan Stone, an associate in the Elder Law Practice Group at Mandelbaum...more
New Jersey Officially Introduces Driver’s License Notation for Autistic Motorists - Autistic motorists in New Jersey, as well as their parents/guardians, are now able to request that their autism diagnoses be notated on...more
What do you need to know about estate planning for pets in San Diego and throughout California? What are some of the essential elements of an effective estate plan that will protect your beloved companion(s) while ensuring...more
We all remember “The Brady Bunch” — the picture-perfect story of two families seamlessly coming together under one roof, complete with a catchy theme, and every conflict resolved neatly in 22 minutes. But in reality, blending...more
A question for you: do you have an estate plan? Of course you do, everyone needs an estate plan. Second question: who is(are) the beneficiary(ies) of your estate plan? Someone you love and trust, I presume. Perhaps a spouse,...more
Blending families often introduce unique dynamics. In addition to the day-to-day challenges and opportunities that blended families create, there is also careful planning to consider when creating or updating an estate plan....more
The media is filled with stories of deceased celebrities whose final wishes were either unknown or the subject of dispute. An important lesson: You can retain control of your finances after incapacity and remain in control of...more
When the Supreme Court made its landmark decision in Obergefell v. Hodges in 2015, same-sex couples across the country gained the right to marry. But with recent shifts in the legal landscape, such as the overturning of Roe...more
Frank Fritz, star of the History Channel show “American Pickers,” suffered a stroke, became incapacitated, and died on September 30, 2024, at age 60. Before he passed away, his friend, Chris Davis, became his legal guardian....more
Interested in trying to prepare your own estate plan? There are resources available to assist you, such as online services, computer software and how-to books. Do-it-yourself (DIY) estate planning may save you hundreds or...more
When minor children are addressed in an estate plan, special considerations are involved to ensure their well-being and financial security. Parents ought to make decisions about who they would prefer to serve as the guardian...more
Whether you’re a dog lover, a cat person, or a caretaker for another kind of feathered, scaly, or furry friend, pets are an important part of our lives. Yet when individuals are creating their estate plan, their pet’s future...more
Estate planning is a critical part of securing the future for any family, and for LGBTQ+ individuals, it is particularly important given the legal complexities and challenges that may arise in the current political climate....more
A financial power of attorney (POA) can be a critical component of your estate plan. It appoints a trusted representative (often called an agent) to make financial decisions on your behalf in the event you’re unable to do so....more