Estate planning is not just about passing on your assets to loved ones. It is also about minimizing the tax burden they may face after your passing. By employing smart tax-saving strategies, you can ensure that more of your wealth goes to your beneficiaries and less...
Northern Virginia Law Blog
Avoiding pitfalls when choosing a business successor
By naming someone to take over ownership of your business after you retire or die, you can ensure the continuation of your enterprise beyond your lifetime. Still, choosing a successor might not be effective if you make one or more mistakes when creating your plans....
How to choose the right person for financial power of attorney
When planning for the future, choosing someone to handle your financial affairs when you cannot is a huge decision. The person you select to become a financial power of attorney (POA) representing your estate will have significant responsibilities. This is a task you...
New estate planning considerations when you retire in Virginia
As you retire in Virginia, it is important to reassess and update your estate plan to align with the specific considerations of this stage in life. After all, estate planning is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. Virginia retirees should be mindful of certain aspects...
4 key considerations when choosing a special needs trustee
When setting up a special needs trust, one of the most important decisions you will make is selecting the right trustee. This individual or entity will manage the trust for the benefit of the person with special needs. 1. Understanding of special needs The trustee...
How can probate lead to stress?
Probate, a legal process to validate a dead person's will, can bring along a tough time for those left behind. The issues involved with this process often seem overwhelming to people. There are many ways the probate process can inadvertently become a source of...
What do filing inventories and preparing accountings mean?
The primary goal of estate administration is to ensure a systematic and lawful transfer of a deceased person's property to their heirs or beneficiaries. In Virginia and other states, estate administration includes filing inventories and preparing accountings. This...
How can you reduce arguments among beneficiaries during probate?
Probate, the legal process of giving away a dead person's assets, may lead to challenges for beneficiaries. Arguments often arise, creating tension among family members. However, it is possible to reduce conflicts during this difficult period. Clear communication...
What should business owners know about estate planning?
For business owners, estate planning involves preparing for the future management and distribution of your assets, including your company, in the event of death or incapacitation. This planning is essential not just for personal reasons but also for your business's...
5 advantages of revocable trusts in Virginia
Estate planning in Virginia is important at all stages of life. It can help with financial security, peace of mind and wealth preservation, among many things. Revocable trusts stand out as a valuable tool to give people flexibility and control over their assets. 1....