Modern life extends far beyond physical possessions. From online bank accounts to social media profiles, many people now have valuable digital assets that need attention when creating an estate plan. As a result, digital wills have become an important addition to...
Estate Planning
3 reasons not to keep your estate plan a secret
Many people’s closest relatives have absolutely no idea what is in their estate plans. In many families, it is something that people do not discuss. Whether it is due to a dislike of talking about death or a feeling that conversations about money are somehow dirty and...
Transferring real property on behalf of an estate
Transferring real property on behalf of an estate is a consequential responsibility that may arise during the estate administration process. Whether the property is a family home, vacation residence or investment property, ensuring a proper and legal transfer is...
AI can help to organize elder care information
Caring for an aging loved one often means managing a mountain of information—medical records, legal documents, care plans, prescriptions and more. In the midst of navigating emotional and logistical challenges, staying organized can feel overwhelming. Fortunately,...
Charitable remainder trusts vs. charitable lead trusts
Charitable trusts are tools used in estate planning to support charities while still benefiting family or personal financial goals. Two common types are charitable remainder trusts (CRTs) and charitable lead trusts (CLTs). Although they sound similar, they serve...
When can an adult lose their testamentary capacity?
Once people turn 18, they are legal adults. They have certain responsibilities and rights. Most of those rights persist definitely. Anyone who is a legal adult can theoretically establish a will or draft other estate planning documents. They can select beneficiaries,...
Potential downsides to an incentive trust
An incentive trust gives you a chance to provide your beneficiary with specific goals. Maybe they can access the trust after they graduate from college. Perhaps they can only access it as long as they’re gainfully employed. These trusts are often used to influence...
3 common reasons people draft advance medical directives
An advance health care directive is an estate planning document that provides guidance regarding medical treatment. Individuals who experience incapacitation or medical emergencies can rely on their advance directives to guide the care that they receive. People can...
3 surprising ways to get more out of your Virginia estate plan
Creating an estate plan might seem like a task for the elderly, but it offers numerous advantages for anyone, regardless of age or wealth. In Virginia, an estate plan can do more than just distribute your high-value assets after you pass away. Here are three other,...
What distinguishes prenups from postnups?
Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements are legal contracts that specify how marital assets will be managed if the marriage ends in divorce. Both address the division of financial assets, provisions for alimony and retirement benefits. The primary distinction between...

