A no-contest clause is one of the most effective ways to discourage your family members or estate beneficiaries from wasting time and money in court by contesting your will. However, before adding one to your estate plan, it is important to understand the full...
Protecting minor children is one of the objectives of estate planning. If you have a minor child, it’s crucial to name a guardian who will take care of them if you are unable to because of incapacitation or death. Virginia law allows parents of a minor child to...
The classic estate plan dispute that you’ll see in TV dramas revolves around money. One party is upset that the deceased left money or a large asset like a home to someone other than them. Not all disputes are things like this. Here are some other reasons for...
Many people created their estate plans while they are married. Their wills, trusts, powers of attorney and healthcare directives may name a spouse as a primary beneficiary, executor, trustee or decision-maker. After a divorce, those designations may no longer reflect...
Getting your estate plan together takes a lot of thought because you likely want to make sure that you have everything set up just right. Your effort may not end there. It’s usually a good idea to discuss the plan with your loved ones so there’s no confusion later. ...
Blended families often bring together spouses, children from previous relationships and shared family goals. While these relationships can create meaningful connections, they may also raise questions about how you want to distribute your property in the future....
No parent wants to imagine a world where they are not there to tuck in their child, cheer at recitals or help to fix scraped knees. Planning for that possibility can feel unbearable. A well-drafted estate plan serves to turn that fear into control. Not only can it...
If you are single and do not have children, estate planning may not be something you prioritize. You might assume that because you have no direct heirs, you can delay setting up a plan. In reality, you likely have people or causes you care about and may want your...
Creating a trust can be a powerful way to protect your assets and provide for your loved ones. However, a trust is only as effective as its setup and ongoing management. In Virginia, certain oversights may prevent a trust from achieving its goals, potentially leaving...
Major life changes can quietly change how your estate plan works for you. In Virginia, many people sign a will or trust and then forget all about their documents. An out-of-date estate plan can put unnecessary burdens on your family after you are gone, so put your...
