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We hear this question all the time: “If I just add my child to my bank account, does that take care of my estate planning?” It’s a completely reasonable thing to wonder. After all, if your child is already on the account, the money goes straight to them when you pass–no hassle, no delay, right? […]
If I Have A Will, Does That Mean My Family Avoids Probate?
The short answer is: No, creating a will does not avoid probate. Here’s what you need to know. Going through the probate process can be a daunting task for families, often accompanied by emotional turmoil. If you want to make things as easy as possible for your loved ones after you’re gone, you need to […]
When Is Probate NOT Necessary In Rhode Island?
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 […]
Why You Shouldn’t Use AI To Write Your Estate Plan
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 […]
Why Outdated Beneficiary Designations Can Wreck Your Estate Plan
When people think about estate planning, wills and trusts often come to mind first. But there is a simple tool that can make a big difference in ensuring your assets pass smoothly to your loved ones: beneficiary designations. A beneficiary designation is a simple way to name who will receive a particular asset when you […]
What Is a Testamentary Trust and How Does It Work?
When it comes to estate planning, you’ve probably heard of wills and living trusts—but what about testamentary trusts? If you’re looking for a way to provide for your loved ones while maintaining some control over how your assets are distributed, a testamentary trust might be a great option. So, what exactly is a testamentary trust, […]
How To Use Power Of Attorney to Avoid Guardianship
Adults who are no longer able to handle their finances or make healthcare decisions for themselves are set up for “living probate,” which refers to a guardianship or conservatorship. In simpler terms, you want to avoid guardianship for the same reason you want to avoid probate. The real situation you want to prevent while you […]
Selling vs. Keeping Inherited Properties: What to Consider During Probate
Inheriting real estate can be both a financial opportunity and a potential source of stress—especially when multiple heirs are involved. Deciding whether to keep or sell the property depends on a variety of legal, financial, and emotional factors. Below, we explore the pros and cons of each option, how the probate process plays into the […]
Wills Vs. Trusts Compared Side By Side
Wills and trusts the two most common tools used in estate planning to ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes. While both serve the fundamental purpose of passing on wealth and protecting your loved ones, these documents function in different ways and offer distinct advantages. Understanding the key differences—such as probate avoidance, privacy, […]
Three Reasons Why You Want to Avoid Probate For Your Estate
The short definition of probate is: “Probate is the court action that changes the title of assets from a deceased person to the beneficiaries or heirs.” Whether or not someone leaves a will, probate is often necessary. It is a common misconception that creating a will, or holding assets jointly, will avoid probate. Simply leaving […]
