While it is possible to leave a child out of a will in Virginia, there are limitations and important points to consider. Planning carefully can help you communicate your wishes clearly and may reduce family disagreements. At the same time, exploring alternatives to...
Northern Virginia Law Blog
What if you lose mental capacity without a power of attorney?
Losing the ability to make your own decisions can create serious complications for you and your family. Without a power of attorney in place, no one automatically gains the legal right to handle your financial or medical matters. Understanding what happens in this...
What are common mistakes people make in their wills?
Creating a will helps ensure your wishes are followed after you pass away. Yet, many people in Virginia make small mistakes that can cause confusion or even make the will invalid. Understanding these errors can help you avoid problems for your loved ones later....
What happens to your business if heirs disagree on succession?
Disagreements among heirs can quickly complicate the future of your business. Without clear direction, family members may fight over control, ownership shares, or the company’s future. These disputes can drain financial resources, damage relationships, and threaten...
How can you reduce family probate disputes?
The loss of a loved one is hard enough without added tension among family members. Unfortunately, disagreements during probate can strain relationships and slow down the process of settling an estate. In Virginia, there are steps that can help reduce the chances of...
How do you update or revoke an old will in Virginia?
A will does not stay frozen in time. Life changes or new financial circumstances often require updates. State law provides specific ways to change or revoke an old will. Understanding these steps helps ensure your wishes remain legally valid. Updating a will with a...
How do you designate beneficiaries in a will or trust?
When you create a will or trust, one of the most important decisions you make is designating beneficiaries. Knowing how to properly designate beneficiaries ensures that your wishes are followed and helps prevent disputes. What are beneficiaries? Beneficiaries are the...
What should veterans know before granting POA to a family member?
Granting power of attorney (POA) is an important decision, especially for veterans who may need help managing their affairs. Before assigning POA to a family member, veterans must understand the implications. Selecting the right person and following the correct steps...
Who pays tax on succession transfers?
When ownership of a business or real property moves due to succession—whether to heirs or among owners—you might expect hefty taxes. But in Virginia, the rules often shift responsibility away from the successor. Here's what you need to know. Transfer tax basics in...
Can probate be skipped?
You might ask whether probate is avoidable when someone dies. In Virginia, not every estate requires formal probate. The structure and valuation of the assets can allow you to bypass the process altogether. When probate may not be needed Virginia permits a small...


