Probate is the legal procedure used to validate and authenticate a deceased person's will. The procedure is conducted via the courts. The process involves settling the deceased's outstanding taxes and debts, ascertaining the worth of their assets and transferring any...
It's a heartbreaking story we see too often on the news: a scammer has conned an older adult out of their life savings. Our hearts ache for the victim, and we are outraged that these con artists are rarely caught. As we watch our parents age, we begin to worry that...
Many people have an overly-simplistic concept of what should transpire during estate planning. Creating a will is important, but it is far from the only step necessary for the protection of an individual later in life and the support of their loved ones after their...
More and more, the digital world is intertwined with the physical. From the photos you keep of important events to your credit card statements – you have a wealth of digital assets. That’s why you need digital estate planning. In fact, a digital estate plan may be the...
Unmarried couples living together, building lives together and even having families together is no longer unusual in the United States – it’s almost the norm. Roughly 7% of the adult population in this country is living with their unmarried partners, and 59% of all...
Your estate plan is not just important to you but also to the people you included. Perhaps you named several close family members and friends as beneficiaries in your will. You likely have given the role of executor of the estate to someone you know. One of the...
Receiving an Alzheimer's diagnosis can be a life-altering moment, not only for an individual, but also for their loved ones. Even though you are likely feeling very overwhelmed right now, if you’ve been diagnosed with this condition, it’s important to consider...
When you’re advancing in age to the extent that you start considering your options for care, it is normal to be curious about your rights in the event that you become a nursing home resident. Understanding your rights is the first step to ensuring you receive the...
Most adults in Virginia have the legal authority to manage their own affairs. Once someone turns 18, they have their own financial responsibilities and control over their medical needs. Even if they still live with their parents, their parents can't control what they...
A will is a legal document that instructs how your estate should be settled. It likely names an executor and lists beneficiaries and assets. A will is a fairly straightforward legal document, however, it is not without flaws. For example, a will might be challenged if...
