When couples divorce, they each prepare separate estate plans. However, when children are involved, it would seem that some coordination might be helpful for the benefit of their children. There are a few important things to know about coordinating estate plans of divorced parents. Using the Same Attorney Some couples opt to use the same […]
30
Jun
Jun
Divorce is an important life event that requires changes to other aspects of your life such as retirement and estate planning. Decisions that were previously straight forward when you were married are more complicated when divorced but have children together. The following tips on estate planning for divorced parents can help you navigate some of […]
23
Jun
Jun
The urgency to complete estate planning for single adults is often different from that of married individuals. Without a spouse, single adults face more uncertainty in who would be involved in their life in the event of disability or incapacity, and also who will inherit upon death. In addition to the normal Last Will & […]
23
Jun
Jun
Estate planning discussions are often focused on married couples, but it’s equally important for single individuals to prepare one too. In fact, in some ways, it’s more important for single adults given that heirs are less obvious and there are generally no jointly owned assets. A proper estate plan may be the only way to […]
08
Jun
Jun
There are an abundance of estate planning attorneys. How can you narrow down your choices and select the right attorney for your needs? There are several factors to consider. Here’s what to look for in an estate planning attorney. 1 – Areas of Practice Some attorneys cover broad areas of practice (i.e. estate planning, personal […]
08
Jun
Jun
Estate planning can be very complicated and stressful. That alone is reason to hire a professional. But, if you’re not convinced, consider these other reasons to hire an estate planning attorney. 1 – Complex Family Matters Every family is unique, but yours may be even more so if you have children from multiple marriages, step […]
18
May
May
A decedent’s estate must go through a legal process before any assets may be distributed. If you are a trustee or personal representative, you will be tasked with gathering a variety of information needed. Here’s a look at the estate settlement information gathering checklist for personal representatives and trustees. Estate Plan Information Personal representatives and […]
18
May
May
The estate settlement process by Simmons & Schiavo is a trademarked seven step process. These steps are designed to help guide you through probate and trust administration. Below is an overview of the unique estate settlement process developed by our firm. Our team works with you on each and every step, providing necessary legal guidance […]
21
Apr
Apr
With the Coronavirus pandemic spreading, courts are seeing an increase in emergency requests for temporary guardianship of an incapacitated person. Courts in Massachusetts are closed to the public until May 4th. However, hearings are continuing to be held virtually on emergency matters. If you have a family member who is incapacitated due to illness or […]
20
Apr
Apr
If an adult becomes incapacitated due to an accident or illness and has no health care proxy on file, then someone can petition the court for guardianship. A specific process must be followed, per state law. The following is some helpful information on guardianship of an incapacitated adult in Massachusetts. Guardianship is connected to a […]
