Procrastination is part of human nature, and many otherwise responsible adults delay completing actions that they find unpleasant as a result. Few activities are more stressful than deeply contemplating one's own eventual death or medical incapacitation. However, that...
Estate Planning & Probate
Who is most easily poised to exert undue influence on a testator?
Someone’s estate plans are supposed to reflect (among other things) their heartfelt desires for what should happen to their assets when they are gone. That’s why testators are expected to be of sound mind when they make their wills, establish a trust or set other...
What is a last-minute change to a will, and when is it a bad sign?
You probably know that if your loved one changed their will at the last minute, it could be a sign of undue influence or other issues. At the same time, you have to question what “last minute” really means. What constitutes a change in a will that shouldn’t be legal...
Understanding the tax consequences of your estate plan
You might think that when you die, you can finally stop worrying about taxes. Sadly, life doesn't work that way. Even after your death, the government will still try to lay claim to your property, possibly at the expense of the legacy you want to leave for the people...
Understanding mental capacity and its influence on an estate plan
For legal purposes, mental capacity comes down to your right to make your own decisions. There are times when people do have the mental capacity to make their own decisions and times when they do not. Someone will have the mental capacity to make a decision for...
3 warning signs that someone else influenced changes to a last will
A last will or estate plan should be a reflection of somebody's relationships and wishes. It is common for individuals to leave inheritances for the people who depend on them and those with whom they feel closest throughout their lives. Sadly, the legacy your loved...
Will there be taxes due from your estate in Virginia?
Other than conflicts among family members and probate avoidance, taxes are one of the top-cited concerns for those hoping to create a comprehensive estate plan. No one wants their legacy unnecessarily diminished by estate taxes, especially because they have already...
Do I need an estate plan?
Estate planning is something that can leave people with more questions than answers. Many people know that wealthy people have an estate plan for their estate, but they do not realize they anyone can benefit from an estate plan. Misinformation surrounding estate...
How Early Can Planning Help?
Estate planning can come with many difficult decisions. Making health care choices in the event that you can’t make them later may certainly rank toward the top. Laying out what you want may seem difficult, but it can make sure tough calls are handled accordingly....
When you can cry foul play in probate
Fulfilling your loved one’s final decrees can be a difficult undertaking, but you want to make sure you do it right. It may seem straightforward before you read the instructions, but problems can arise when the terms don’t seem quite right. 35% of people have or know...