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Liberty Law Estate Planning Blog

Covers estate planning, estate taxes, probate and trusts. By Liberty Law.

http://reddingestateplanningblog.com

Mar 15
THANK YOU!!

THANK YOU!!

Shawn McCammon (Liberty Law, A.P.C.) was just named Best Attorney in the annual “Best of” Tehama County, which is voted on by the readers of the Daily News. We would like to thank our friends, family, and clients for all their support! We…
Feb 15
Re-thinking a classic tale!

Re-thinking a classic tale!

Here is a nice article from Ahmed Shaikh, a certified estate planning specialist, on the classic tale of Cinderella! An Estate Plan for Cinderella’s Parents http://www.estateplanning.com/An-Estate-Plan-for-Cinderellas-Parents/ Tweet
Feb 15
Fiscal Cliff Update 2013

Fiscal Cliff Update 2013

Fiscal Cliff Update: Whether you approve or disapprove of the Fiscal Cliff deal made by President Obama, the Senate, and the Congress, as of the date of this blog post it is the law of the land. While folks on either side of the aisle…

Rank this Week: 2434

Estate of Confusion

Covers developments in estate planning and wealth transfer taxes. By Hani Sarji.

http://blogs.forbes.com/hanisarji/

Jan 5
More Estate Tax Changes Could Follow Fiscal Cliff Deal

More Estate Tax Changes Could Follow Fiscal Cliff Deal

News bites might leave you hungry for details about the estate tax and the other wealth transfer taxes. This post aims to answer your questions and serve as a useful resource.
Jun 30
California Joins Majority Of States In Recognizing Tort — Intentional Interference With Expected Inheritance

California Joins Majority Of States In Recognizing Tort — Intentional Interference With Expected Inheritance

In Beckwith v. Dahl (May 3, 2012), the California Court of Appeal, Fourth Appellate District, joined the majority of states in recognizing the tort of intentional interference with expected inheritance (IIEI). “[I]t is time to officially…
Jun 30
Tennessee Woos Wealthy Retirees By Repealing Inheritance And Gift Taxe

Tennessee Woos Wealthy Retirees By Repealing Inheritance And Gift Taxe

States are competing for wealthy retirees and are enticing them with tax breaks. Last month, Tennessee lawmakers cut taxes to keep wealthy retirees in the state and to woo others. In separate bills, Tennessee lawmakers made significant…

Rank this Week: 2392

Thoughts on Wills & Estate…

Thoughts on Wills & Estate Planning

Covers estate planning in Virginia and Maryland. By Scott R. Zucker.

http://estateplanninginfoblog.com

Jan 4
Federal Estate and Gift Tax Rules for 2013, Including Example

Federal Estate and Gift Tax Rules for 2013, Including Example

By passing the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 (“ATRA”), President Obama and Congress have agreed on a first step towards solving our fiscal cliff problem. While neither Democrats or Republicans seem overly…
Dec 2
My 21 Favorite Estate Planning Insults and Comeback

My 21 Favorite Estate Planning Insults and Comeback

When you achieve a certain level of success in estate planning law, complaining about the billboards, the yachts, the keys to the cities, the authorized (and unauthorized) documentaries about your life, etc. seems a bit petty. Then again, the…
Nov 30
The Fiscal Cliff and Your Estate Planning (Part III): The Impact on You

The Fiscal Cliff and Your Estate Planning (Part III): The Impact on You

In the first post of this series, we discussed the fiscal cliff and its impact on our economy. In the previous post, we covered the proposals most likely to be considered by Congress in the coming weeks. In this final post of the…

Rank this Week: 2337

California Tax Attorney Blog

Covers tax controversies involving the IRS and California Franchise Tax Board, as well as California probate, estate planning matters and business transactions. By Mitchell A. Port.

http://www.californiataxattorneyblog.com/

Dec 29
Gifts Made By Personal Check

Gifts Made By Personal Check

A check written in 2012 that does not clear until 2013 is at risk of being a 2013 gift, not a 2012 gift, since the donor could have stopped payment in 2013 before it cleared. The issue with using checks to make gifts is that until the check…
Nov 22
Tax Humor

Tax Humor

A tax loophole is "something that benefits the other guy. If it benefits you, it is tax reform.'' — Russell B. Long, U.S. Senator “People who complain about taxes can be divided into two classes: men and women.” — Unknown "Like…
Nov 20
How Good Is Your Attorney?

How Good Is Your Attorney?

Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review Ratings just came out with it's rating of me. I have been honored with an "AV Preeminent" rating which is a significant rating accomplishment- a testament to the fact that a lawyer's peers rank him or her at the…

Rank this Week: 2354

Senior Life Care Planning

Covers elder law, assisted living facilities, estate planning, and nursing homes. By David Wingate.

http://blog.seniorlcp.com/

Mar 8
Assisted Living Facilities may not be what you think. In fact, many are like 5 star hotels.

Assisted Living Facilities may not be what you think. In fact, many are like 5 star hotels.

When it comes to leaving your home and residing in a retirement home most people would rather stay at home. However, today's retirement homes, or Continuing Care and Assisted Living Facilities may not be what you think. In fact, many are like…
Mar 8
Caring for a loved one is both physically and mentally challenging.

Caring for a loved one is both physically and mentally challenging.

Physical limitations make a person much more difficult to attend to. Especially, if they are totally bedridden. Therefore, speak with the physician and have it explained exactly what undertaking their needs involves. Consequently, you may…
Mar 7
Don't Dismiss the early signs of dementia as normal aging.

Don't Dismiss the early signs of dementia as normal aging.

Too many seniors are dismissing the early signs of dementia as “normal aging.” Diagnosing the disease early can potentially delay its progression, as well provide valuable time to help families cope and determine how to care for their…

Rank this Week: 2412

San Jose Estate Planning Attorney…

San Jose Estate Planning Attorney Blog

Covers estate taxes, gift taxes, and estate planning. By Raymond Sheffield.

http://www.sanjoseestateplanningattorneyblog.com/

Feb 22
8 ASSETS THAT AVOID PROBATE

8 ASSETS THAT AVOID PROBATE

Avoiding Probate is often a key goal for clients in their estate planning. This article will give you eight examples of property that passes directly to your beneficiaries without the need for probate. 1. Property Passing Outright to…
Feb 14
5 TIPS FOR MAKING INTRAFAMILY LOANS

5 TIPS FOR MAKING INTRAFAMILY LOANS

One of the best strategies for clients with wealth is to find ways to maximize the value and economic efficiency of that weath in a way that benefits the family without increasing the tax impact on the client's estate. An intrafamily loan…
Feb 1
USE POWERS OF APPOINTMENT TO CREATE FLEXIBILITY

USE POWERS OF APPOINTMENT TO CREATE FLEXIBILITY

A power of appointment can be an effective estate planning technique, facilitating how your property may ultimately pass to your heirs. There are two types of powers of appointment: general & limited. Both of these powers are the same with…

Rank this Week: 2374

Future of the Federal Estate Tax

Covers estate tax reform. By Hani Sarji.

http://mhs.typepad.com/threepointfive-45/

Jul 4
[EOC]Let Freedom Ring With Gift Of Firearm

[EOC]Let Freedom Ring With Gift Of Firearm

My previous post highlights how Americans are generous, despite a challenging economy. An earlier post mentioned that donating firearms could help the donor, the donor’s family, the charitable organization, and all Americans who get a…
Jul 4
[EOC]Americans Are Generous, Despite Economy

[EOC]Americans Are Generous, Despite Economy

A recent report highlights the generosity of Americans. Giving USA 2011: The Annual Report on Philanthropy for the Year 2010 finds that Americans contributed about 2 percent of disposable income in 2010. The executive summary of the report…
Jul 4
[EOC]The Most Important Historical Gun In History Of United State

[EOC]The Most Important Historical Gun In History Of United State

I have been researching estate planning for firearms, and I came across a video that is worth sharing today, a day on which we celebrate the United States and reflect on its history. The video is about the Girandoni air rifle, which is on…

Rank this Week: 2220

Cramer Law Center

Covers Florida estate planning.

http://cramerlawcenter.com

May 17
WASTED WEALTH: $40 MILLION AND NO WILL

WASTED WEALTH: $40 MILLION AND NO WILL

Roman Blum died last year in New York at the age of 97 with $40 million worth of assets. At first glance, that sounds like a wonderful way to leave the world. However, Mr. Blum passed away without a will or any other…
May 9
ESTATE PLANNING ISSUES FOR UNMARRIED AND SAME-SEX COUPLES

ESTATE PLANNING ISSUES FOR UNMARRIED AND SAME-SEX COUPLES

New state laws allowing same-sex marriage and two pending Supreme Court rulings on the subject have brought to mind the special estate planning issues faced by same-sex and other unmarried couples. Marriage comes with important legal…
May 3
MAY IS ELDER LAW MONTH!!

MAY IS ELDER LAW MONTH!!

May has been declared to be National Elder Law Month and Older Americans Month. We think that makes this the perfect time to discuss how we and other elder law attorneys can serve “older Americans” (defined as those…

Rank this Week: 2669

New York Trusts & Estates…

New York Trusts & Estates Litigation Blog

Discusses recent cases and developments pertaining to New York trusts and estates law. By Farrell Fritz.

http://www.nyestatelitigationblog.com/

May 13
Surrogate Removes Fiduciary Sua Sponte For Misrepresentations In Petition

Surrogate Removes Fiduciary Sua Sponte For Misrepresentations In Petition

A recent post to this blog discussed a case in which a court declined to remove a fiduciary based on allegations of a potential conflict of interest, but in the absence of actual misconduct on the part of the…
Apr 3
Potential Conflict of Interest Insufficient to Disqualify Nominated Fiduciary

Potential Conflict of Interest Insufficient to Disqualify Nominated Fiduciary

“A testator’s choice of executor should be given great deference” (see Matter of Palma, 40 AD3d 1157, 1158 [3d Dept 2007]). This rule is fundamental to the practice of trusts and estates law, yet is often…
Mar 4
Appellate Division Decides Case of First Impression Concerning "Adopted Out" Child's Right Of Inheritance

Appellate Division Decides Case of First Impression Concerning "Adopted Out" Child's Right Of Inheritance

The term “adopted-out” child, commonly used by the courts, refers to a child adopted out of his or her biological family, i.e., a child placed for adoption…

Rank this Week: 2613

Texas Probate Litigation

Covers Texas will contests, trust and inheritance disputes. By J. Michael Young.

http://www.txprobatelitigation.com/

May 3
Texas Supreme Court enforces arbitration clause in a trust

Texas Supreme Court enforces arbitration clause in a trust

Today, the Texas Supreme Court released an anticipated opinion in Rachal v. Reitz. In the opinion, the Court upheld an arbitration clause in a trust dispute, requiring the trust beneficiaries to bring their claims against the trustee in…
May 2
Oil and gas royalties and estate disputes in Texa

Oil and gas royalties and estate disputes in Texa

The importance of oil and gas interests to Texans is nothing new. But the shale boom has brought about a renaissance in exploration and production, and a great influx of wealth to many Texas families. This boom is highlighted in...
Apr 15
An Executor Can be Removed for a Conflict of Interest

An Executor Can be Removed for a Conflict of Interest

Back in June of 2009, I posted about a Texas Supreme Court case regarding the removal of an executor. In that case, Kappus v. Kappus, the Texas Supreme Court held that an alleged conflict of interest was not a sufficient...

Rank this Week: 2905

Covers Elder Law, long-term care, "End-of-Life" and health care surrogate decision-making, estate & personal planning, fiduciary administrations, elders' dispute resolution, and Orphans' Court litigation. By Neil E. Hendershot.

http://paelderestatefiduciary.blogspot.com/

Apr 18
PA Supreme Court Appoints New Elder Law Task Force

PA Supreme Court Appoints New Elder Law Task Force

On April 18, 2013, in a posted press release entitled Supreme Court’s Elder Law Task Force Will Tackle Growing Abuses to Older Pennsylvanians, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court announced creation of a new Elder Law Task Force. The initial…
Apr 7
Karoly Estates Will Forgery Case Ruling

Karoly Estates Will Forgery Case Ruling

The Morning Call (Allentown, PA) published a news report entitled Northampton County judge upholds Karoly wills (04/05/13), by Peter Hall, highlighting the most recent development in the Karoly Estates forgery of wills matter: "John…
Apr 4
PA Orphans' Court Rules Proposed for Sweeping Change

PA Orphans' Court Rules Proposed for Sweeping Change

On April 3, 2013, the Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System website posted a news article entitled Input Sought on Proposed Rewrite of 40-year-old Orphans' Court Rules, which announced: "A substantial overhaul of the current Orphans’…

Rank this Week: 2902

The Ohio Trust & Estate Blog

Covers estate tax, marriage, medicaid and probate. By Michael D. Bonasera.

http://www.bonasera.org

Dec 18
TOMMY!

TOMMY!

So I’ve not posted for a while. In fact, you’ll note that I mention in the below post that my son was about a month from arriving… Well, arrive he did. On 6/18/2012 Tommy arrived and, smiling almost ever…
May 8
Sad Update

Sad Update

Its been a while since I’ve written anything here and, though I fully intend to get back to it in the coming months, a couple sad events required mentioning: MCA died last Friday. The number of tributes available on the web make this…
Aug 16
So Many Great Blogs, So Little Time

So Many Great Blogs, So Little Time

My Google Reader account is getting pretty full-up. There’s so many great resources out there for estate planning that it’s getting hard to keep up! It’s a nice problem to have I guess…

Rank this Week: 2593

Legally Easy

Offers legal news and information. By Charley Moore.

http://legallyeasy.rocketlawyer.com/

Nov 29
Be Careful What You Search For: Google Searches Can Be Criminally Damning

Be Careful What You Search For: Google Searches Can Be Criminally Damning

Recent evidence in the the Casey Anthony case highlights just how incriminating a Google search could be
Nov 29
Legalize Marijuana, Bolster The Economy (with $13.7 billion)

Legalize Marijuana, Bolster The Economy (with $13.7 billion)

Oregon already won the battle in the November election, now for the rest of the country…
Nov 27
Dear President Obama, Please Leave Me Alone

Dear President Obama, Please Leave Me Alone

With the election long over, why are the President’s supporters still receiving countless emails? Dear President Obama,

Rank this Week: 2534

Nolo's Everyday Estate Planning…

Nolo's Everyday Estate Planning Blog

Covers estate planning and wills. By Nolo.

http://blog.nolo.com/estateplanning/

Oct 18
Capital gains taxes on sale of house

Capital gains taxes on sale of house

Dear Liza: My daughter is on my deed as joint tenant with me. If I die and she decides to sell the house, will she have to pay capital gains taxes?
Sep 30
How the Estate Tax Work

How the Estate Tax Work

Dear Liza: My dad just received about $200,000 in cash from his recently passed-away friend’s trust. I wonder how he should file his tax for 2012? I found several documents discussing about inheritance tax exemption being $5 million.…
Sep 18
Buying Mom’s House: Be Careful

Buying Mom’s House: Be Careful

Dear Liza, The only asset funding my Mother’s Trust is her primary residence. However, she recently moved from CA to live with me in WA. My sister would like to purchase the home but doesn’t have the full amount. She would pay a down…

Rank this Week: 2626

Colorado Estate Planning

Covers Colorado Springs estate planning & administration plus business & tax planning. By Kevin Forbush.

http://blog.forbushlegal.com/

Sep 2
For-profit and Non-profit nursing home

For-profit and Non-profit nursing home

The GAO study reinforced that for-profit nursing homes – which account for more than two-thirds of nursing homes nationwide – had more frequent and serious deficiencies than non-profit homes.
Sep 1
Trust reformation

Trust reformation

Even the best laid plans can face unexpected bumps. So what happens when a trustee or beneficiary needs to alter the language of an irrevocable trust and can't turn to the settlor for help because he or she may now be deceased? The answer is…
Aug 31
Inheriting a Retirement Account

Inheriting a Retirement Account

7 Steps to Take When Inheriting a Retirement Account

Rank this Week: 2862

Cut Your Tax

Provides tax tips and tax planning advice. By Hedeker & Perrelli, Ltd.

http://www.cutyourtax.com/news-and-blog/

May 30
Facing a Tax Levy on a Single Member LLC

Facing a Tax Levy on a Single Member LLC

If you own a single member LLC and owe personal back taxes, there are certain ways the IRS can and cannot leverage your business assets to secure the money.
May 15
Inherited IRAs Demystified

Inherited IRAs Demystified

Since IRAs have become a popular retirement tool, it was only a matter of time before inherited IRAs become a common place. When the owner of an IRA passes away, the named beneficiary inherits the account. Inherited IRAs have restrictions and…
May 1
Using Roth IRA Income to Fund Retirement

Using Roth IRA Income to Fund Retirement

If you're in or near retirement, chances are you've already heard that you can use Roth IRA income as a key tool in funding your retirement. That’s because, while money going into a Roth IRA is taxed, all earnings are tax-free, as long as…

Rank this Week: 2857

Family Fortress Estate Planning…

Family Fortress Estate Planning Blog

Covers Colorado estate planning and elder law. By Schlender & Stone.

http://www.schlenderlaw.com/blog

Jul 30
Living on the Edge: Small Business Owners and Retirement

Living on the Edge: Small Business Owners and Retirement

Do you feel comfortable with your retirement plan? If you’re a small business owner the answer to that question is probably no. In fact, according to this report by Jules H.
Jul 30
Living on the Edge: Small Business Owners and Retirement

Living on the Edge: Small Business Owners and Retirement

Do you feel comfortable with your retirement plan? If you’re a small business owner the answer to that question is probably no. In fact, according to this report by Jules H.
Jul 28
Not Just Estate Tax Anymore

Not Just Estate Tax Anymore

Anyone who has been following our blog knows that the expiring Bush tax cuts (including the repeal of the estate tax this year and the tax’s reinstatement next year) have given lawmakers no end of trouble as they struggle and debate—and…

Rank this Week: 2752

Law Office of Barton P. Levine

Covers New York estate planning, probate and wills.

http://www.new-york-estate-planning.com/blog/

May 24
Irrevocable Life Insurance Trusts in Light of the New Tax Law

Irrevocable Life Insurance Trusts in Light of the New Tax Law

Prior to the passage of the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2013, many taxpayers with moderate to large estates created irrevocable life insurance trusts, or ILITs, in an effort to avoid a heavy tax liability on their estates when they died.…
May 23
April Marks Autism Awareness Month

April Marks Autism Awareness Month

Autism Spectrum Disorders, or ASD, are thought to affect one in about 88 children across the nation. Because of the sharp increase in the number of people diagnosed with ASDs, the Autism Society designates the month of April each year as…
May 20
The Importance of Estate Planning for Women

The Importance of Estate Planning for Women

As recently as fifty years ago in the United States, men traditionally made all major decisions in a marriage. This included decisions regarding investments, expenditures and estate planning. Although this has certainly changed in more recent…

Rank this Week: 3352

Probate Thoughts From The…

Probate Thoughts From The Villages, Florida

Covers wills, probate, asset protection, and real estate. By Ronald Jones.

http://flawyer.us/ProbateThoughts/

May 23
When you should not talk to the police

When you should not talk to the police

Normally, I don’t handle criminal cases. Nonetheless, the topic of this blog is how to protect yourself; how to protect your assets, how to protect your estate, how to avoid scams. One thing that you need to consider is what ……
Apr 30
Living Trust Costs and Fee

Living Trust Costs and Fee

I’ve been reviewing an estate and trust accounting prepared by another attorney, and in doing so, it occurs to me that I have not discussed trust administration fees in Florida. One of the supposed advantages of a living trust is…
Apr 16
Living Will

Living Will

Today, April 16, is National Healthcare Decisions Day. I just received a visit from the local Hospice organization, Hospice of Marion County. Hospice of Marion County Which is a very good organization. I strongly encourage clients to set up…

Rank this Week: 3429

Buffalo NY Attorneys Blog

Covers New York elder law, estate law, and real estate legal issues. By Robert Friedman.

http://www.wny-lawyers.com/wordpress

May 17
National Senior Health & Fitness Day

National Senior Health & Fitness Day

National Senior Health & Fitness Day is being celebrated at a completely free fair on Wednesday, May 29, 2013 from 12-4 PM at the Akron-Newstead Senior Center, 5691 Cummings Road, Akron, NY. The goal of this health and fitness day is to…
May 8
NEW YORK LANDLORD NOT LIABLE FOR DOG BITE

NEW YORK LANDLORD NOT LIABLE FOR DOG BITE

Plaintiff sued the landlord and tenant for injuries that his son sustained when he was bitten by the tenant’s dog. In order to recover against a landlord for injuries caused by a tenant’s dog on a theory of strict liability, the…
Apr 23
ARE NY CONDO BOARD’S LIABLE FOR SECOND HAND SMOKE?

ARE NY CONDO BOARD’S LIABLE FOR SECOND HAND SMOKE?

Yes, a condominium board’s obligation to regulate second hand smoke is based on New York Real Property Law (RPL) section 339-v(b)(i) which requires all condominium bylaws to include such restrictions on and requirements respecting the…

Rank this Week: 3090

Estate Planning Blog

Covers asset protection, estate planning, probate and income tax planning. By Sheppard, Brett, Stewart, Hersch, Kinsey & Hill P.A.

http://www.sbshlaw.com/blog

May 17
Boxtop Minister

Boxtop Minister

A friend of mine officiated at another friend’s wedding not too long ago. I asked him (in jest) if he was acting in his official capacity as a notary public. “No,” he replied, “I’m an ordained minister!”…
May 10
When Does the Living Will Apply?

When Does the Living Will Apply?

Many are familiar with the “living will” which is otherwise known as the “right to die” legal document. Not to be confused with living trusts, which govern the disposition of our assets – living wills state what…
May 10
Don’t Believe the News Reports – Our Future is Bright

Don’t Believe the News Reports – Our Future is Bright

It seems that everywhere you turn you hear, read or see some report about how today’s youth are lazy, don’t know how to communicate with one another, or otherwise don’t measure up in some way or form. Don’t believe…

Rank this Week: 3479

Death Care Law Blog

Covers laws relating to preneed and death care compliance, serving banks, funeral homes, crematories, and cemetaries. By Attorney William Stalter.

http://www.deathcarelaw.com/

May 15
Michigan's Plan: Target Date Investment Strategy

Michigan's Plan: Target Date Investment Strategy

I stand corrected. A representative of the Michigan Funeral Directors Association advises that their request for proposal for a new investment advisor for the master trust has resulted in the selection of a firm that will not only assume a…
May 2
Illinois Tax Blues: when a loss is not a lo

Illinois Tax Blues: when a loss is not a lo

For many Illinois funeral homes, April 15th served as a bitter reminder of Merrill Lynch and the financial losses suffered by the IFDA master trust. The final Merrill Lynch settlements (approximately $41 million) were received in 2012, and…
Apr 17
Wisconsin Cemeteries: Who needs a fiduciary?

Wisconsin Cemeteries: Who needs a fiduciary?

Here is proof that readership of newspapers is going down. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel called a few weeks back about a Wisconsin legislative bill that sought investment freedom for cemetery trust funds. With the legislative battle…

Rank this Week: 3271

Walker Lambe

Covers North Carolina elder law and estate planning.

http://www.organizeyourassets.com/blog/

May 13
Shine Some Light on Thi

Shine Some Light on Thi

What image pops into your head when you think “Last Will and Testament”? For most of us, it is an image cloaked in formality, a thick stack of paper full of detailed directions clearly establishing our wishes. For…
Apr 26
That Will Never Happen To Me….

That Will Never Happen To Me….

Although it can be hard to envision a time when you may not be able to handle your own affairs, it is a risk we all face. The consequences for your family or those you care about of not planning, can be like an earthquake. We frequently…
Mar 11
Consumer Reports Probes DIY Estate Planning

Consumer Reports Probes DIY Estate Planning

I spend a lot of time counselling people to be careful about relying on do-it-yourself estate planning documents. The chances of going it alone and getting right are very low and completely unpredictable. There are more reasons…

Rank this Week: 3235

Los Angeles Estate, Probate And…

Los Angeles Estate, Probate And Tax Law Blog

Covers estate planning, tax and probate law. Published by Moravecs, a Professional Law Corporation.

http://losangelesestateprobatelawyer.blogspot.com/

May 9
Probate and Trust Administration Top Post

Probate and Trust Administration Top Post

The other day I was looking through all the stats on the blog, to see the most popular posts. In first place is What happens when someone dies without a will? with 1550 views. If you liked that one, check the …
Apr 18
What Happens when a Person Dies with an Ambiguous Will?

What Happens when a Person Dies with an Ambiguous Will?

I have been posting lately on the various issue and challenges raised by probate and trust litigation. Now, just to be clear, "litigation" means an actual filing in a Court of law. But what of something that rises to the…
Apr 9
Litigation in the Probate Courts Part II, How Long Does it Take?

Litigation in the Probate Courts Part II, How Long Does it Take?

In the first installment of this series of posts, we talked about the general aspects of probate litigation, and what to expect if you find yourself involved in a case. In this post I will talk about how long each phase of a case…

Rank this Week: 3424

Your Texas Estate Plan

Covers tax and estate planning. By Jacob Pelley.

http://www.yourtexasestateplan.com/

May 9
For the Mom

For the Mom

Mother's day is coming up. All of us, whether we know them or not, have one. If they are in your life, wonderful. If not, I'm sure you either know of a mom out there somewhere who could use a nice word of encouragement, or just an…
Apr 22
Elder Abuse: How to Spot it, What to do About it

Elder Abuse: How to Spot it, What to do About it

Just typing the words "child abuse" makes me sick, and just plain mad. As I'm assuming it does for most. But what about "elder" abuse? Do you even know what it is? We treat children specially because we have determined, as a society, that…
Apr 3
Its all about Trust

Its all about Trust

Who can you trust? What can you trust? Can you trust your assets to a Trust? People hear the word "trust" and think lots of things. Trust me. Trust fund. Trust fund baby. Bank and trust. Trust account. I have previously written on the…

Rank this Week: 3237

Florida Asset Protection &…

Florida Asset Protection & Estate Planning

Covers asset protection and estate planning. By C. Randolph Coleman.

http://blog.thecolemanlawfirm.net

May 3
Income Tax Planning - Now of More Concern Than The Estate Tax

Income Tax Planning - Now of More Concern Than The Estate Tax

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Apr 16
Why Estate Planning Is Still Important

Why Estate Planning Is Still Important

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Apr 4
Famous Probate Case - Atypically Typical

Famous Probate Case - Atypically Typical

<font style="FONT-SIZE: 12px" face="Verdana"><font style="FONT-SIZE: 14px">Today's New York Times contains an article about the death of "</font><a href= …

Rank this Week: 2996

South Florida Estate Planning Law

Covers South Florida estate planning, probate and tax law issues. By David Shulman.

http://www.sofloridaestateplanning.com/

May 1
My Interview on the Shalom Show

My Interview on the Shalom Show

Below is my interview with the Shalom Show, a Jewish public affairs cable show that is on tv nationwide.
Apr 30
Man dies with $40 million, no will, and no heir

Man dies with $40 million, no will, and no heir

Today’s crazy estate planning story comes form the New York Times, He Left a Fortune, to No One. Roman Blum died in New York last year at 97 years old. He was a Holocaust survivor and a successful real estate developer worth over $40…
Mar 5
Both Attorneys and Courts are Tired of Financial Institutions’ Refusal to Accept Powers of Attorney

Both Attorneys and Courts are Tired of Financial Institutions’ Refusal to Accept Powers of Attorney

Banks Often Refuse to Accept Powers of Attorney One of the things that’s becoming more and more frustrating for trusts and estates lawyers in Florida is the refusal of banks and other financial institutions to accept properly drafted…

Rank this Week: 3425

Los Angeles Probate Litigation…

Los Angeles Probate Litigation Attorney Blog

Covers wills & trusts, probate and conservatorships. By Ginzburg & Bronshteyn LLP.

http://www.losangelesprobatelitigationattorneyblog.com/

Apr 26
Conservatorship of Zsa Zsa Gabor

Conservatorship of Zsa Zsa Gabor

Update to a post from 2012 concerning the Conservatorship of Zsa Zsa Gabor. Previously, Gabor's only child, 64-year-old Constance Francesca Hilton, asked a California court to establish a conservatorship to mange her mother's care and…
Apr 11
Lunch with The Probate Judges ~ Trust & Estates Section

Lunch with The Probate Judges ~ Trust & Estates Section

Firm partner, Yasha Bronshteyn was in attendance at The Beverly Hills Bar Association sponsored Lunch with the Probate Judges on March 19, 2013, at Lawry's in Beverly Hills. Supervising Judge Mitchell L. Beckloff, Judge Reva G. Goetz, Judge…
Mar 20
Report Predicts Alzheimer's, Other Dementia to Double by 2050

Report Predicts Alzheimer's, Other Dementia to Double by 2050

Dementia, whether spurred by Alzheimer's disease or other causes, is becoming an ever-increasing issue. With studies and forecasts universally predicting a continued dramatic rise in the occurrence of dementia in the decades ahead, the number…

Rank this Week: 3348

California Estate Lawyer Blog

Covers topics such as accounting, breach of fiduciary duty, breach of trust, elder abuse, intestacy, trust litigation, and undue influence. By Theodore M. Hankin.

http://www.californiaestatelawyerblog.com/

Apr 26
Some Probate and Trust Litigation War Stories in California

Some Probate and Trust Litigation War Stories in California

I have represented three sisters against their brother over their mother’s will. I’ve represented a child who was adopted and thought she had a great relationship with her presumed half-sister and then found out the sister…
Apr 26
Cause and Effect Resulting in California Trust Contest

Cause and Effect Resulting in California Trust Contest

Trust contests are very similar to will contests with similar allegations of incompetency and/or undue influence. The difference is that there may be only a very short time to decide if you are going to file a contest. There is a procedure…
Apr 26
Cause and Effect Resulting in California Will Contest

Cause and Effect Resulting in California Will Contest

Suppose a will is being offered for probate (the process by which the decedent’s debts are paid and the assets distributed) and someone thinks (a) the writer of the will was mentally incompetent when they wrote it or (b) the writer of…

Rank this Week: 3218

Vandrew Law Blog

Covers asset protection, estate planning, tax law, and small business law.

http://blog.law.vandrew.com/

Apr 16
Generation Skipping Tax: Don't Blow Off That Gift Tax Return

Generation Skipping Tax: Don't Blow Off That Gift Tax Return

Towards the end of 2012, there was a mad dash to set up trusts to reduce both federal and New Jersey estate tax. When the dust cleared, a log of people had been spurred on to do a lot of planning that was often long overdue. A lot of former…
Feb 26
Why is It Important to Choose an Estate Planning Law Specialist?

Why is It Important to Choose an Estate Planning Law Specialist?

The Estate Law Specialist Board Inc is the only American Bar Association accredited program for certification of an attorney as in the Estate Planning Law Specialist (“EPLS”). Attorneys who become Board-Certified under…
Feb 26
The Future of State Estate Tax Planning

The Future of State Estate Tax Planning

I'm proud to announce that I was published in New Jersey Law Journal again this past week, this time on the topic of the "fiscal cliff" tax changes have altered planning for the New Jersey Estate Tax. A copy of the article can be accessed…

Rank this Week: 3300

Mogren Glessner & Roti

Covers Washington state family law, estate planning, and probate.

http://mgrlaw.blogspot.com/

Apr 4
Compassion and Conviction

Compassion and Conviction

The following is a quote I came across from Rick Warren that I find insightful in this age of political correctness:“Our culture has accepted two huge lies. The first is that if you disagree with someone’s lifestyle, you must fear…
Oct 3
Power of Attorney for Adult Children

Power of Attorney for Adult Children

Do you have a Power of Attorney for your adult
Sep 27
Renton Criminal Defense Lawyer

Renton Criminal Defense Lawyer

Welcome to our new attorney, Michelle R.

Rank this Week: 3540

New Jersey Estate Planning &…

New Jersey Estate Planning & Elder Law Blog

Covers business law and planning, elder law, estate planning, and probate and estate administration. By Deirdre Wheatley-Liss.

http://www.njelderlawestateplanning.com/

Apr 2
Love is Lost - And So is Your Inheritance - Divorce Really Ends Thing

Love is Lost - And So is Your Inheritance - Divorce Really Ends Thing

A common plan among our married clients is to leave their property to their spouse, either outright or in trust - oft-referred to as the “I Love You” Will. Sometimes, love is lost and the couple divorces. We recommend our clients…
Mar 25
Personal Injury Damages and Medicaid Liens - SCOTUS Decide

Personal Injury Damages and Medicaid Liens - SCOTUS Decide

You have a horrific accident and are looking at a life of extreme medical care. The accident was caused by another person (drunk truck driver). You get a multi-million dollar award. Does the state that you live in get a…
Mar 25
Personal Injury Damages and Medicaid Leins - SCOTUS Decide

Personal Injury Damages and Medicaid Leins - SCOTUS Decide

You have a horrific accident and are looking a life of extreme medical care. The accident was caused by another person (drunk truck driver). You get a multi-million dollar award. Does the state that you live in get a share? First,…

Rank this Week: 3113

Law Matters Blog

Covers Vermont family law and estate planning. By the Law Offices of Bucknam Black Brazil PC.

http://vtlegalhelp.com/our-blog/

Mar 20
What you should know about employment discrimination

What you should know about employment discrimination

What you should know about employment discrimination Employers and employees are usually aware that discrimination in the work place is illegal. The definition of illegal discrimination, however, can be difficult to understand. As I have…
Mar 14
Return to Annual Homestead Declaration

Return to Annual Homestead Declaration

Return to Annual Homestead Declarations Vermont funds its educational system through a property tax system. The “education tax” is imposed on all homestead and nonresidential property, but at differing rates. The basis for…
Feb 15
Understanding The Visa and MasterCard Settlement

Understanding The Visa and MasterCard Settlement

UNDERSTANDING THE VISA AND MASTERCARD SETTLEMENT In the past few weeks merchants have been receiving a “Notice of Class Action Settlement” related to a lawsuit against Visa, MasterCard and numerous banks. The purpose…

Rank this Week: 3342

The Law Office of Raymond A.…

The Law Office of Raymond A. Harris PLLC Blog

Covers estate planning, medicaid and medicare.

http://www.raymondaharris.com/blog/

Mar 4
Gave presentation regarding special needs trusts and planning at Capital Area Center for Independent Living

Gave presentation regarding special needs trusts and planning at Capital Area Center for Independent Living

Today I gave a presentation at Capital Area Center for Independent Living (CACIL) regarding the uses of special needs trusts and Medicaid planning, guardianships and conservatorships, and helping individuals with special needs to live in the…
Mar 4
Gave presentation regarding special needs trusts and planning at Capital Area Center for Independent Living

Gave presentation regarding special needs trusts and planning at Capital Area Center for Independent Living

Today I gave a presentation at Capital Area Center for Independent Living (CACIL) regarding the uses of special needs trusts and Medicaid planning, guardianships and conservatorships, and helping individuals with special needs to live in the…
Mar 3
Testimonial from a happy client of The Law Office of Raymond A. Harris, PLLC

Testimonial from a happy client of The Law Office of Raymond A. Harris, PLLC

Posted with her permission, below is a testimonial from a client whom I assisted in reversing a Medicare Part B penalty and saving her thousands of dollars. “I first want to say that this account is being told with the help of my…

Rank this Week: 3069

John Rogers Burk

Covers estate planning and elder law in California.

http://www.roseville-estate-planning.com/blog/

Feb 14
Why Timeshares are Valuable for our Economy

Why Timeshares are Valuable for our Economy

Roger is attending the GNEX Timeshare Conference in Beverly Hills this week. The opening talk was by Howard Nusbaum, President of ARDA, The American Resort Development Association. Among other things, Howard pointed out that…
Feb 14
Why Timeshares are Valuable for our Economy

Why Timeshares are Valuable for our Economy

Roger is attending the GNEX Timeshare Conference in Beverly Hills this week. The opening talk was by Howard Nusbaum, President of ARDA, The American Resort Development Association. Among other things, Howard pointed out that…
Feb 14
Why Timeshares are Valuable for our Economy

Why Timeshares are Valuable for our Economy

Roger is attending the GNEX Timeshare Conference in Beverly Hills this week. The opening talk was by Howard Nusbaum, President of ARDA, The American Resort Development Association. Among other things, Howard pointed out that…

Rank this Week: 3162

Augulis Law Firm

Covers New Jersey estate planning.

http://www.augulislawfirm.com/blog/

Jan 31
Longevity Statistics Can Help You Plan Ahead

Longevity Statistics Can Help You Plan Ahead

The length of your life is going to be a big factor to consider when you are planning ahead with your elder years in mind. While no one has a clear view into the future you can examine longevity statistics to get some general ideas about the…
Jan 30
Who Will Handle Your Final Arrangements?

Who Will Handle Your Final Arrangements?

When you are thinking everything through in an effort to plan your estate properly you should consider the matter of your final arrangements. Imagine the scenario that may exist after you pass away. Different family members may have different…
Jan 29
Fiscal Cliff Compromise Provides Estate Tax Clarity

Fiscal Cliff Compromise Provides Estate Tax Clarity

The so-called “fiscal cliff” included changes to the estate tax that would have been devastating for many. If no deal was made to avoid falling over the cliff in 2013 the estate tax exclusion would have been reduced to just $1…

Rank this Week: 3252

Byrd Garrett PLLC Blog

Covers Washington elder law, estate planning, and long term care.

http://www.byrdgarrett.com/blog/

Jan 26
Understanding the Clauses in Your Will

Understanding the Clauses in Your Will

Knowing about the different kinds of clauses that are in your will is an important part of understanding the estate plan that you’re trying to put together. After all, if you don’t know what the will is saying, how can you know…
Jan 26
Are You Doing Too Much? The Difference Between Caretaking and Caregiving

Are You Doing Too Much? The Difference Between Caretaking and Caregiving

As more people spend time providing elder care services to parents or other elderly family members, they often experience stress or difficulties because of the services they provide. Elder care, especially for untrained volunteers, can be…
Jan 26
Learning From General Norman Schwarzkopf

Learning From General Norman Schwarzkopf

As commander of coalition forces during operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm, General Norman Schwarzkopf left behind a legacy as a great military commander when he died this December. He also left behind a legacy that can teach us a lot…

Rank this Week: 3356

My Mississippi Tax Lawyer

Covers Mississippi taxes, estate planning, and business formation issues. By David Lynch.

http://www.mymstaxlawyer.com/

Jan 2
What is in the new Tax Relief Act passed by Congress?

What is in the new Tax Relief Act passed by Congress?

We finally got a new tax bill and now everybody wants to know what’s in it. I’m still working on digesting it myself, but if you want to get ahead of the curve, I recommend taking a look at the … Continue reading →
Dec 20
Do you think we’re going over the “fiscal cliff”?

Do you think we’re going over the “fiscal cliff”?

Apparently in response to my post yesterday, I received a couple of questions from people as to whether or not I think Congress will let us go over the “fiscal cliff.” First let me say that I really do not … Continue…
Dec 19
What happens if we go over the “fiscal cliff”?

What happens if we go over the “fiscal cliff”?

The American Institute of CPAs has released a Fiscal Cliff Series that provides a brief, objective and non-partisan fact sheet on each of the following tax topics: Alternative Minimum Tax Individual Income Tax Rates Estate Tax…

Rank this Week: 3243

California Probate Lawyer Blog

Covers estate planning and probate. By Mitchell A. Port.

http://www.californiaprobatelawyerblog.com/

Nov 20
Peer Review

Peer Review

Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review Ratings recently came out with it's rating of me. The Ratings are an objective indicator of a lawyer's high ethical standards and professional ability. Attorneys receive a Peer Review Ratings based on…
Nov 13
Estate and Gift Tax Change

Estate and Gift Tax Change

On November 9, 2012 the Joint Committee on Taxation released a report which, among other issues, examines the potential impact to the Treasury from potential changes to the estate tax, including the Obama administration’s proposals. …
Sep 4
Estate And Gift Tax Planning

Estate And Gift Tax Planning

2012 provides a unique opportunity for making gifts using the federal estate, gift and generation skipping transfer (“GST”) tax exemption of $5,120,000 (reduced by any prior use of such exemption). Unless Congress takes action, the…

Rank this Week: 3142

Nevada Trust Reporter

Features commentary on trust law and asset protection. By Provident Trust Group, LLC.

http://blog.trustprovident.com/

Nov 5
1st Annual Dynasty Trust State Rankings Chart Released

1st Annual Dynasty Trust State Rankings Chart Released

Nationally known estate planning and asset protection attorney Steve Oshins recently published a Dynasty Trust State Rankings Chart at http://www.oshins.com/images/Dynasty_Trust_Rankings.pdf. Like his annual Domestic Asset Protection Trust…
Aug 10
New Article on Nevada Asset Protection

New Article on Nevada Asset Protection

The article was recently published in CCH Estate Planning Review and is entitled “Asset Protection in the Desert: Nevada’s Rules, Recent Developments, and Advantages.”
Jul 6
Las Vegas Business Press Executive Snapshot Looks at Provident’s CEO

Las Vegas Business Press Executive Snapshot Looks at Provident’s CEO

Provident Trust Group is pleased to announce that its CEO, Theresa Fette, has been featured in a Las Vegas Business Press Executive Snapshot. Authored by Hubble Smith, this snapshot follows on the heels of Ms. Fette being named Entrepreneur…

Rank this Week: 3355

Unique Estate Law Blog

Covers elder law and estate planning.

http://uniqueestatelaw.com/lawyer/blog/Unique_Estate_Law_Blog.htm

Nov 5
Minnesota Transfer on Death Deed, Part 4:Can You Cancel a Transfer on Death Deed After It's Filed?

Minnesota Transfer on Death Deed, Part 4:Can You Cancel a Transfer on Death Deed After It's Filed?
Oct 31
Tax Saving Plan: Year End Gift

Tax Saving Plan: Year End Gift

Year End Gifts If you’re like most people, you want to make sure you and your loved ones pay the least amount of tax possible. Many use year-end gift giving as a way to transfer wealth to younger generations and also reduce the overall…
Oct 29
Minnesota Transfer on Death Deed, Part 3: How Do You Get One?

Minnesota Transfer on Death Deed, Part 3: How Do You Get One?

Twin Cities Estate Planning Attorney Explains the Steps Necessary to Use a Minnesota Transfer on Death Deed If you are a property owner and wish to use a transfer on death deed (“TODD”) to transfer that property without the hassle of…

Rank this Week: 3321

Florida Probate Blog -…

Florida Probate Blog - WeProbateFlorida.com

Covers Florida probate administration. By Long H. Duong.

http://weprobateflorida.com

Oct 18
Do I have to Probate the Homestead Property?

Do I have to Probate the Homestead Property?

We have been answering this question repeatedly over the last couple of months. If a homestead property is not a probate asset, why does it have to go through probate? Great question.
May 29
Cost (expenses) associated with Florida probate administration

Cost (expenses) associated with Florida probate administration

There seems to be more confusion these days regarding the costs (expenses) associated with a probate administration in Florida. Let me try to clear things up:
Feb 10
Where should I store my Last Will and Testament (and other important documents)?

Where should I store my Last Will and Testament (and other important documents)?

Nearly 5 years ago, I wrote an article about what to do when you can’t find the Will of the decedent.

Rank this Week: 3189

Fiduciary Folio

Covers fiduciary (wills, estates, entity representations) law, particularly as applied in the State of Georgia. By Tanner Pittman.

http://www.tannerpittmanlaw.com/blog-fiduciary-folio.html

Oct 11
He had a power of attorney; there's nothing I can do . . .

He had a power of attorney; there's nothing I can do . . . 

. . . or is there?Often, a child or close friend of an elderly person will be granted a power of attorney to help the elder handle her financial affairs. Such power of attorney is usually quite broad, granting the trusted agent the…
Mar 26
Posthumous marriage and the pre-pre-nuptial agreement

Posthumous marriage and the pre-pre-nuptial agreement

Imagine that, instead of wedding billionaire Howard Marshall, Anna Nicole Smith had merely gotten engaged to him. Marshall, being as he was sixty years Smith's elder, then predeceases her, and Smith requests a posthumous wedding.
Mar 9
Estate tax trap for non-citizen

Estate tax trap for non-citizen

As Alpharetta, Georgia, probate attorneys at the Tieger Law Center rightly report this week, estate taxes can be devastating to non-US citizens.

Rank this Week: 3192

Towson Tax Attorney

Covers taxes, business law, and estate planning. By Jeffrey Rogyom.

http://towsontax.com

Sep 14
Didn’t File Tax Returns? The IRS Offers Solutions for Nonfiler

Didn’t File Tax Returns? The IRS Offers Solutions for Nonfiler

Whether on purpose or by mistake, taxpayers sometimes find themselves years behind on filing their tax returns. Sometimes people are lucky and decide on their own to file past due tax returns and move on with their life. Others have the…
Mar 25
Family Business Succession Planning

Family Business Succession Planning

Small businesses comprise a significant portion of our economy. Unfortunately, most small businesses do not survive into the next generation of owners. The hard work and legacy of the current and prior generations can be wasted without proper…
Feb 18
Business Contract Drafting and Review

Business Contract Drafting and Review

Properly drafted commercial contracts not only improve the professional appearance of your business, but may also determine whether your contracts can be enforced in court or whether you can avoid court altogether. For various motivations,…

Rank this Week: 3382

Family Wealth Blog

Covers elder law, estate planning and family law. By Crider Law P.C.

http://www.criderlaw.net/family-wealth-blog

Aug 23
5 Estate Plannning Tasks You Shouldn’t Put Off

5 Estate Plannning Tasks You Shouldn’t Put Off

Download PDF of this article here: 5 Estate Planning Tasks You Shouldn’t Put Off
Aug 15
Do You Need An Estate Plan?

Do You Need An Estate Plan?

Download PDF of this article here:Do You Need An Estate Plan? On of the frequently asked questions I get is “Do I need an estate plan?” The answer is: Yes!
Aug 8
An Estate Plan: Do You Need One?

An Estate Plan: Do You Need One?

On of the frequently asked questions I get is “Do I need an estate plan?” The answer is: Yes!

Rank this Week: 3139

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