The loss of a family member is a deeply emotional experience. On top of the grief, many families are thrust into the unfamiliar territory of probate – the legal process of settling a deceased person’s estate. Probate can feel daunting, riddled with legalese and...
Estate And Probate Law
3 ways to cover long-term care costs when estate planning
Aging is a privilege, but it is also a process fraught with personal challenges. Older adults experience numerous changes in their health ranging from a reduction in strength and flexibility to a change in their center of gravity. Some people experience decreased...
What happens to an individual’s debt when they die?
Dealing with debts after a person passes away can be a complex and sensitive issue. It’s a common concern for many, especially for loved ones left behind. Understanding what happens to these debts is crucial in navigating the aftermath of a loved one's passing....
4 more reasons to update your estate plan
The first time you drafted your estate may have taken a lot of work. But, in the end, it was worth it. However, estate planning is a lifelong process. In other words, you may need to consider making updates to your estate plans regularly. One of the reasons some...
Updating your estate plan as you divorce
If you already have an estate plan in place, you probably know that it requires occasional updates based on life events. This includes things like marriage, new children and grandchildren, the death of beneficiaries and divorce. If you’re considering or preparing for...
Revocable versus irrevocable trusts in estate planning
Trusts are a critical part of an estate planning strategy, providing various benefits that suit different needs. Revocable and irrevocable trusts, the two main types, each offer distinct advantages and limitations. Revocable trusts, also known as living trusts,...
How long does the probate process usually take in Pennsylvania?
One of the most common reasons that people create a comprehensive estate plan is that they want to keep their assets out of probate court. The more time in court that an estate requires, the more the estate administration process will cost. Additionally, family...
Tips on protecting your interests as a beneficiary during probate
Probate is the legal process of validating a deceased person's will, administering their estate and distributing assets to beneficiaries per the instructions left behind. While it sounds pretty straightforward, this court-controlled process is not always smooth...
4 benefits that estate planning can provide to families
Estate planning is beneficial for the average individual, but most people don't create a will, trust or other estate documents for their own needs. Instead, it will be concern for their spouse, children or other close loved ones that motivates them to put together a...
Your choice of executor is crucial to your estate plans
Choosing the right executor can make all the difference if you have a will that contains your final wishes. This is the person responsible for managing your estate and ensuring that your will is implemented to the letter. While many may assume that choosing an...