There are many factors to consider when estate planning, including the potential for probate and the effect it can have on your beneficiaries. Unfortunately, many people are unfamiliar with probate and what it means for their estate. Understanding the probate process...
If I die without a will, will the state of Pennsylvania take my property? No, if you die without a will, or “intestate,” your property goes to your “heirs” under Pennsylvania law – your closest family relatives, but if you have no family relatives, your estate could...
As loved ones age, the need for care and assistance often increases. Determining the best care option can be a difficult and emotional process for families. Two common choices are assisted living facilities and in-home care. Both provide support and care, but they...
Life is a balance between living in the moment and planning ahead. We strive to be here now and be present and “mindful” (there’s a cool modern catchword), but also look into the future to organize and arrange our lives effectively. There’s a saying about planning:...
“Elder Law” is a shorthand abbreviation for many different practice areas involving helping individuals and families plan for the future, at all stages of life. And the short answer is: No, the services elder law attorneys provide are not just for the elderly. Part of...
Writing out your estate plan is an essential step to take, whether you are a young adult just starting a family or you are approaching retirement age. The most basic component of an estate plan is your last will and testament, but writing a will entails making one...
Emergencies happen in my elder law practice when I’m called upon to act urgently in an unusual situation. Elder law is all about people and relationships. It’s all very personal. Emergencies of various kinds can make my job challenging, and often bring in sharp focus...
People think that if you’re going into a nursing home, you’re just going to lose it all and there’s nothing you can do. That’s absolutely not true! The truth is that for a married couple, when one spouse is going into long-term nursing home care while the other is...
Estate planning is not always easy. When you have a loved one or family member who is irresponsible, unpredictable or untrustworthy about money, you may want to find ways to restrict their inheritance distribution. There are many different options for trust fund...
Do you want to legally protect your family when you are gone, but are afraid that it will be a difficult and complicated effort? It’s easy to create a Testamentary Trust, a very effective and available estate planning tool to protect your loved ones and their future....