According to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), from 1986 through 2018, tens of millions of firearms were both manufactured in and imported into the United States.[1] Where are those guns today? They are most likely filling gun safes, closets, nightstands, and desk drawers in homes all across this country. Regardless of whether […]
The death of a loved one is never easy. Regardless of your relationship with the deceased, you need space and time to process and grieve your loss. Once you have had time to cope with all that has happened, you should consider updating your own estate plan in light of your loved one’s death. We are […]
When a family member or other loved one dies, grief and shock can sometimes be overwhelming. You will need this time to grieve. The last thing most people want to think about is making plans or decisions. Some things do not need to be done immediately, but there are some steps that should be taken soon […]
With our society becoming increasingly mobile and international travel becoming more affordable than ever before, families and family-like relationships have steadily grown far more diverse in terms of citizenship. It is no longer uncommon for spouses from different countries to retain citizenship in their homelands. Many couples split their time between the United States and another […]
Genealogy has long fascinated many people, and it continues to be studied by those who are interested in discovering who they descended from and what those family members were like. Many of us have gazed at black and white or sepia-tone photos of ancestors whose names we don’t know and wondered about their lives, joys, trials, […]
Equality is a noble concept and one many people turn to when deciding how to divide up their estate. There are many circumstances in which equal distribution of assets among beneficiaries is the right choice, but there are some cases where identical inheritances do not make the most sense. In such situations, the difference between what […]
If you are thinking about putting together an estate plan, it is important to consult with an attorney who is knowledgeable and experienced in this area of law. Your initial meeting with an estate planning attorney is a good opportunity to discuss your family’s financial situation as well as your concerns and goals. If you are […]
Most families are happy families. They get together for the holidays, share laughs, and tell stories. Everyone gets along and enjoys each other’s company. Then, the matriarch or patriarch dies. Suddenly, years of pent-up resentment and hurt feelings bubble to the surface, and the once-happy family is now embroiled in litigation over the decedent’s estate. When […]
When most people think of estate planning, they think of assets such as bank or brokerage accounts, retirement plans, life insurance, and real estate. But sometimes invaluable personal property, such as family heirlooms or keepsakes, needs to be included as well. This type of property should not be overlooked in your estate plan just because it […]
Estate plans are almost magical: They allow you to maintain control of your assets, and yet protect you should you become incapacitated. They take care of your family and pets. And, if carefully crafted, they reduce fees, taxes, stress, and time delays. Estate plans can even keep your family and financial affairs private. But one thing […]
