If you're considering drafting your own will by hand, you need to understand how Virginia law treats these documents. Virginia allows "holographic wills," but they only count if they follow specific legal rules. These types of wills may offer convenience, but they...
Month: May 2025
Is your will up to date? What you need to know
When was the last time you actually sat down and looked at your will? If you are like most people, it has probably been years — or maybe you haven’t even gotten around to making one at all. Either way, life has a way of shifting unexpectedly: the people in your life...
When should you update your power of attorney?
A power of attorney (POA) is a legal document that allows someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf. These decisions could be related to finances, health care, or other important aspects of your life. While it’s an essential part of estate planning, you...
How does probate impact joint accounts?
When someone dies, the court usually puts their estate through probate. If you share a joint account with that person, you may wonder what happens next. Will you still have access to the account? Will the money get tied up in court? Here's how probate affects joint...
What are the risks of DIY estate planning?
Estate planning plays a significant role in ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes. Handling it on your own can be problematic. Online templates and guides may promise simplicity and cost savings, but they fail to address the complexities of...