Jill M. Santiago Law Offices

Estate Planning Attorney in Rhode Island & Massachusetts

(401) 307-5556

Financial Powers Of Attorney (POA) And Living Trust Compared Side By Side

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When building an estate plan, two documents come up again and again: the financial power of attorney and the living trust. On the surface they can seem to overlap, since both allow someone else to manage your assets when you cannot. But they work very differently, serve distinct purposes, and in most well-designed estate plans, […]

When Is Probate NOT Necessary In Rhode Island?

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Losing a loved one is tough, and the thought of navigating the estate process, especially while grieving, can be daunting. While probate is the legal process necessary to transfer assets from the deceased person’s name to their heirs or beneficiaries, it is not always required. Let’s look at common situations that allow an estate to […]

What Do I Do When A Family Member Dies In Rhode Island?

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Grieving the loss of a family member is one of life’s most challenging experiences. The emotional weight of loss is compounded by stress and confusion, particularly when your loved one did not plan ahead. Without clear guidance from the deceased, families are left to navigate funeral arrangements, property sales, and asset distribution during an already […]

The 3 Types Of “Estate” Attorneys, And Finding The Right Attorney For Your Needs

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When you hear the word “estate,” what comes to mind? For many people, it conjures images of sprawling mansions with acres of manicured land. Others might think of estate sales, where a lifetime’s worth of possessions are sold after someone passes away. Still others associate it with real estate transactions, such as buying and selling […]

What Is That Document That States Who Will Get Your Money And Property After You Die?

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When it comes to passing on your property to friends and family, you have options. Some formal, some informal. While informal methods might seem simpler in the moment, understanding the differences between approaches can help ensure your wishes are actually carried out. Let’s explore the various ways people plan for the distribution of their assets. […]

Why You Shouldn’t Use AI To Write Your Estate Plan

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A courtroom is a fantastic place for a lawyer to get a real education. I’m telling you, probate court is like a masterclass in “What Not to Do” when it comes to estate planning. I see all sorts of things, but the common theme is always the same: a badly-written plan leaves a massive, expensive […]

A Christmas Carol for Your Estate: Protecting Your Legacy with a Little Holiday Spirit

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The holidays are such a great time to hit pause and reflect. As we gather around the table for those familiar, comforting meals, dig out ornaments with years of memories, and watch the sheer joy in a child’s eyes, I always think about Charles Dickens. He really nailed it with A Christmas Carol, showing us […]

How To Talk To Your Parents About Estate Planning (Without Ruining Dinner)

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Estate planning conversations can be awkward. Whether you’re discussing your own plans with loved ones or bringing up the subject with aging parents, these discussions require careful thought and sensitivity. Here are some tips on how to approach these important conversations in a way that strengthens family bonds rather than straining them. Before I dive […]

When People Ask What My Life Meant, Tell Them This:

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There’s a question that haunts me in the quiet moments: When I’m gone, what will people say my life meant? I used to think the answer would be found in my resume: the titles I held, the projects I completed, the professional milestones I achieved. I thought it would be measured in the things I […]