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When creating an estate plan, many clients ask whether transferring their property to their children while they’re still alive is a smart decision. The answer is “it depends.” Making this transfer can have lasting impacts—both positive and negative—on family dynamics, finances, and estate planning. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the pros and cons […]
How Can I Split Assets Among My Children In My Estate Plan So They Don’t Fight?
Nobody likes to think about what will happen after they’re gone, but planning ahead can save your family a lot of heartache. One of the biggest concerns for parents is making sure their children don’t end up fighting over inheritance. Money and possessions can bring out strong emotions, and even the closest siblings can find […]
MA vs. RI: Is My Estate Plan Valid In All States?
People move around a lot these days. I am often asked about whether an estate plan created in a different state will still work after a move, or if an estate plan applies to property owned in another state. The answer is–it depends! First and foremost, a will or trust that is validly drafted in […]
Do I Really Need A Living Trust? Rhode Island Residents
“Do I have enough wealth to justify setting up a trust?” This is a common question. Many people (attorneys included) are under the impression there is some magical dollar amount of wealth one must attain before a Living Trust makes sense. Simple answer, is that no such magical amount exists. Estate planning is about your […]
Understanding Special Needs Trusts in Rhode Island
Caring for a loved one with special needs involves unique challenges, including financial planning for their future well-being. Special Needs Trusts, sometimes referred to as Supplemental Needs Trusts, are powerful tools designed to provide for individuals with special needs while preserving their eligibility for government assistance programs. What is a Special Needs Trust? A Special […]
Wills vs. Trusts: Understanding the Differences and Choosing Wisely
When it comes to estate planning, two common tools often come to mind: wills and trusts. But how do you know which you need? Both provide for distribution of your property after your death. However, wills and trusts operate differently and come with distinct advantages and disadvantages. Here, we’ll compare and contrast wills and trusts […]
So You’ve Been Named The Trustee Of A Trust, Now What?
So, you have been named as a trustee of a trust, and this comes with “powers.” What exactly does that entail? In this blog post, I will review the basics of the role of a trustee. What are Trustee Powers? The powers of a trustee of a trust can vary depending on the specific terms […]
Should I Update My Estate Plan When I Start My Own Business?
Starting a business can have significant implications for your estate plan, as it will likely affect your assets and liabilities, and potentially impact your family’s financial security in the future. Here are a few ways that starting a business could affect your estate plan: 1. Reassess your assets: Starting a business may change your financial […]
What Will Happen To My Pet When I Die? Pet Trusts In Rhode Island
Today’s financial and estate planning tools give us lots of options when it comes to looking after our human loved ones postmortem, such as life insurance, wills, trusts, holding property jointly, etc. But what about our other loved ones—our pets? Introducing the Pet Trust! What is a pet trust? A pet trust is a legal […]
5 Ways Estate Planning Is More Than Just A Will
Estate planning involves the creation of legal documents that provide for the disposition of your estate when you pass away or become incapacitated. Your estate includes all of your possessions—your real estate, automobiles, bank accounts, investments, life insurance and personal belongings. Having an estate plan gives you control over how your affairs are arranged. You […]