Planning for your death is important, but it is equally important to plan what should happen if you are still living but unable to make critical decisions for yourself. A key step in this process is assigning power of attorney to an agent you trust to make decisions...
Estate Planning
3 elements to include in a simple estate plan
Having a Virginia estate plan in place helps ensure that you maintain a certain degree of control over your personal, financial and medical affairs. If you have put off estate planning because you were fearful of the time or monetary commitment involved, rest assured...
How soon is too soon to write a will?
A will is a legal document that provides instructions on what to do after your death. More specifically, wills deal with things like the distribution of assets and who to have custody of your children. This document makes it easier on grieving family members, as it...
3 ways to minimize the impact of probate on your estate
As in other states, in Virginia, your estate may have to pass through probate before distributing to your heirs and beneficiaries. This is the process the government uses to confirm that your will is valid and ensure the transfer of your assets according to your...
What should parents know about naming a guardian for their child?
Parents provide their child with support at every stage of their life, from providing for their physical needs to supporting their emotional needs. However, if you pass away before your child reaches adulthood, you will not be present to offer that support....
A financial power of attorney (POA) gives help when you need it
You never know what will happen in life since accidents and illnesses occur unexpectedly. If you suddenly become incapacitated, having a power of attorney for finances will provide the financial help you need and the comfort your family members need. What it is A...
7 traits that make a good executor
As you create your will, you must make many decisions – some of them are easy and swift, while others take a greater amount of thought. One such decision in the latter category is choosing an executor. Not just anyone can complete the many duties of this important and...
Tips for settling a loved one’s estate
Handling the estate of a loved one who has died is often a bigger job than many people realize. This is particularly true when loved ones have not updated their estate plans in a long time. These tips can make the process easier. Assemble a team If you are the...
Protect your business with a succession plan
With a thriving business and superior leadership, you may feel like your company has secured a successful future. However, unexpected change may bring inevitable disruptions that leave you scrambling for solutions. A succession plan is one way to minimize the...
Update your estate plan on Health Care Decisions Day
April 16 is Health Care Decisions Day in the commonwealth. On this day, Virginians should review their estate plans to be sure they address end-of-life care. If you have not yet made critical health care decisions, you should use this awareness day to begin the...


