Can You Execute My Will?
Executing a will is a big responsibility. It takes time and patience, and the administrative chores can be an extra challenge for those grieving. When you create a will, be thoughtful in your selection and…
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Accountable To Beneficiaries: Personal Representatives
The probate courts appoint personal representatives to settle the affairs of the deceased when there is no will. A personal representative takes control of the assets (aka estate) of the deceased and distributes them to…
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Time for a Conservator?
Taking care of loved ones or friends is a tremendous responsibility. Legal advisors point out that in some circumstances, conservatorships can be the right solution for protecting the finances and legal affairs of someone…
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Let’s Talk About It: Estate Planning
If we become incapacitated, and when we ultimately die, there is so much our families will need to know and do—while grieving. Putting an estate plan in place and communicating about it while we…
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How Do Courts Appoint Administrators?
Typically, when a will is created, an executor is appointed to oversee the affairs of the deceased. If there is no will—or if the designated executor cannot fulfill the duties when the time comes—an administrator…
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Estate Planning: What About Digital Assets?
Well, that’s a question our grandparents never had to deal with! Now that we live so much of life in the digital space, it’s important to consider our digital assets when making estate plans….
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Court Ruling on Holographic Will in Texas
What can happen when someone dies without a will—but has left a hand written note expressing intentions for the distribution of assets? Read on to explore what happened in a recent case in Texas. Understanding…
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Understanding Intestate Succession and Fiduciary Bonds
When a person dies without a will, probate courts rely on intestate succession laws to distribute the assets to heirs. Court-ordered fiduciary bonds can become important in this process. Who Gets What? If there is…
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Choosing a Personal Representative: Time to Buck Tradition?
Traditionally, the oldest child is tapped as the personal representative for the estate of aging parents. Is that always best? Sometimes Traditions Get In Our Way 2020 continues to be a year of learning that…
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