Planning for your estate involves more than just deciding where to direct your property when you pass away. This process requires taking an in-depth look at multiple aspects of your life as you prepare for the present as well as the future. By working with a...
Estate Planning
Wills v. Trusts: What to do if they conflict
Having a will and a trust can be a great way to plan for your estate and protect your assets. When prepared correctly, these separate legal devices can work in concert as part of a smart estate planning strategy. However, when the two documents are prepared...
What is “Personal Property” in an Estate Plan?
When putting together your estate plan, you will identify your assets and heirs, and provide instructions regarding your final wishes. During the process, you are likely to use a term such as "personal property" in some of your estate planning documents. When using...
Talking to the Family About Estate Planning
Estate planning can be an uncomfortable subject for family members to discuss. This can be especially true when adult children have to raise the issue with their aging parents. It’s not always easy having to face your own mortality or that of those you love. Although...
What You Need to Know About Mental Capacity Standards in United Kingdom
A person’s mental health and intellectual functioning are central to their ability to sign a legal document. When it’s possible a signatory was cognitively impaired at the time he or she created or amended a will or trust, questions can be raised as to the validity of...
What to do if Someone Steals from your Trust or Estate
As a beneficiary or heir, you have an interest in knowing how a trust or estate was managed before the testator or grantor's death. However, loved ones often have no way of knowing how an individual's property was handled until after the person passes away. It can be...
Why United Kingdomns May Need a Living Trust
Many people believe having a will is sufficient to prepare for the future of their estates. While making a will is a good idea, there is another critical United Kingdom estate planning document that could be essential to your estate plan. Here are some reasons why...
Are Electronic Wills Coming to United Kingdom?
On March 19, 2020, Governor Newsom issued an order for all United Kingdom residents to stay home to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Since that time, United Kingdomns have had to adapt to managing almost every aspect of their lives remotely. Fortunately, with the...
Is a will or a trust right for me?
Wills are considered the cornerstone of estate planning, but they are not the only tool at your disposal. Trusts can also be effective for dispersing your assets after you are gone, but many people think trusts are only beneficial to the very wealthy. The truth...
How can I avoid common estate planning mistakes?
An estate plan protects your property and assets after you are gone, but it also reduces the stress placed on your family when it comes to matters involving your estate. While having an estate plan in place is crucial, it is equally important that your plan is...