Why having a power of attorney is important
A power of attorney (POA) is a legal document that you can use to appoint someone you trust — perhaps a family member or close friend — to make decisions on your behalf in certain situations. Whether...
View ArticleHarnessing the power of trusts in your Minnesota estate plan
Estate planning can feel like navigating a labyrinth, but trusts offer a beacon of clarity and control. By setting up one or more trust documents, you can manage your assets more effectively, secure...
View Article3 solutions for financial assets that bypass probate court
Testators establishing estate plans have to address many different types of assets. They may own real property, including investment holdings and their primary residences. They may have valuable...
View ArticleWhat should new parents know about estate planning?
Having a baby is an exciting experience for new parents, but it’s one that comes with some decisions they may not have thought about before. One of these is estate planning. Many new parents don’t...
View ArticleShould you use a DNR order in your estate plan?
If your heart stops beating or you stop breathing, medical professionals may use CPR to try to resuscitate you. In many cases, emergency treatment can save your life. However, some individuals do not...
View ArticleLeaving assets to charity in your estate plan
Including charitable giving in your estate plan is a meaningful way to leave a lasting legacy while supporting causes that matter to you. Whether you want to fund medical research, support education or...
View ArticleIs it time to review your estate plan?
Life can change quickly. One day, you are engaged to be married. Then, before you know it, you have three children and another on the way. Life events, changes in your financial situation and new laws...
View ArticleCan stepchildren inherit when a stepparent dies?
Stepparents often fill the same role as legal or biological parents. They spend every day with their stepchildren. They provide them with guidance, comfort and financial support. They love and care for...
View ArticleThe main benefit of a special needs trust
If you have a family member with special needs, they may qualify for certain benefits, such as Medicaid or Social Security. These benefits are often essential for covering expenses like housing or...
View ArticleWhat is a letter of instruction?
Getting an estate plan together is critical for all adults. One thing that some people don’t think about that may be helpful is including a letter of instruction. This is an informal document that...
View ArticleWhen should you review your advance directives?
An advance health care directive is an estate planning document that outlines your preferences for medical care if you are unable to communicate. However, as your life changes, so might your wishes....
View ArticleIrrevocable trusts can provide valuable wealth protection
Creating an estate plan is a critical task that all adults should complete. Part of this process is determining who should get which assets and how those assets should be passed down. This can be done...
View ArticleWhat are the witness requirements for a Minnesota will?
Drafting a will is one of the most basic aspects of modern estate planning. People can secure peace of mind and provide support for their loved ones by establishing an estate plan, including a will,...
View ArticleWhat should you know about adult guardianships?
Recognizing that an adult loved one can’t make decisions for themselves is difficult. There are instances in which you may need to seek guardianship of that adult. This is often the case if the person...
View ArticleWhy probate drags on and what you can do to move it faster
As an estate beneficiary in Minnesota, you might’ve thought probate would be a quick formality, only to run into unexpected delays. It can be frustrating, understandably, but you’re not alone. Probate...
View ArticleWills vs. trusts: what’s the difference, and which do you need?
Planning for the future means making decisions that protect your loved ones and your legacy. For many, that starts with understanding the tools available to manage assets and outline final wishes....
View ArticleAI can help you set estate planning goals
Estate planning can feel overwhelming, especially if you are not sure where to begin. Many people put this important task off because they are busy, unsure of the legal process and/or uncomfortable...
View ArticleWill your loved ones have to pay your taxes after you die?
When someone passes away, one understandably common practical concern among families is whether the deceased person’s unpaid taxes then become the responsibility of surviving loved ones. In Minnesota,...
View ArticleHow the right of first refusal strengthens an estate plan
Certain assets may require special consideration when creating an estate plan. Resources that have more financial value may require more planning than low-value personal property. The emotional value...
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