What About The Car? Affairs of The Estate
When a friend or loved one dies, their car is usually the last thing on anyone’s mind. Ultimately, however, an answer must be found to “what about the car?” Typically, the task of dealing…
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Affairs of the Estate: Covering The Costs
When you serve as the representative designated to bring closure to the affairs of a loved one, the costs tend to add up fast—and so do the tasks. Read on for advice from estate…
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Reality Check: Probate?
Though lots of scary stories float around, there is nothing inherently bad about probate. Simply put, probate is the legal, public process that brings closure to our affairs when we die. The court supervising…
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Establishing An Age Based Trust
Trusts allow families to set aside and protect assets for distribution to designated beneficiaries over time. Though trusts can be established for particular uses, like education, healthcare, or charitable giving, they can also be…
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Serving As A Financial Guardian?
Parents of children under 18 need an estate plan that includes the designation of a guardian to oversee the financial arrangements made for minors. Correspondingly it is vital for the appointed guardian to understand…
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Avoid Family Feuds: Wills and Trusts
If the thought of loved ones locked in conflict over managing your affairs and distributing your assets makes you queasy, pave the way for smooth passage through careful estate planning. Either a will or…
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Unclaimed Estate: $11 Million
When Joseph Stancak died in Chicago at the age of 87, he left behind $11 million, and had no will. Now, six years later, 119 distant relatives have been identified and will inherit a…
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Life Estates Explained
In many families, property, specifically the family home, is the most important asset for consideration during estate planning. Accordingly, lawyers share advice about how the dual goal of remaining securely at home while we…
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What Is a Trust?
Estate planning increasingly involves the establishment of a trust, which is a practical way to designate funds for our own needs and for beneficiaries, including children or those with special needs. Trusts allow for…
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