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....
Northern Virginia Law Blog
How a spendthrift trust protects assets from heirs and creditors
When it comes to estate planning, among your goals is to protect the assets so your heirs may benefit from your success. But, in some situations, you need to protect those same assets from the heirs themselves who may be known for mismanaging money, making poor...
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...
Does your estate plan include an advance medical directive?
If you have been putting off conversations with your family and health care providers about your preferences for end-of-life medical care, you are far from alone. However, having those difficult conversations early may save your loved one untold heartache should the...
How often should you update your will?
Have you written a will but are unsure when to update it? In general, you should go over your will every five years with an estate attorney. Besides regular checkups, you should also keep track of significant life events and incorporate them into your updated will. If...
Should you name your child as your trustee?
There are many reasons to create a trust. You probably have family members you want to provide for or you want to spare your family a lengthy period in probate. You may even know who you want as your trustee. Perhaps you wish to name a son or daughter. However,...