It is not enough to compose and sign a will to make it a binding legal document. To protect against forgeries and fraud, Pennsylvania law also requires that a person who makes a will, known as a testator, should perform this act while in the presence of two witnesses...
For the aging population, figuring out what to do if or when health declines becomes more of a priority. To have the most control in the event of incapacitation, or at the end of life, part of estate planning includes filling out an advance health care directive. This...
When Pennsylvania residents get started on estate planning, it is somewhat overwhelming. What should you take care of first? Where should you start? Today we will look at these complex questions and the possible answers to them. We will start with picking an executor...
Some people in Pennsylvania might want to consider whether they should use a trust protector for their child's trust. A trust can protect assets from a stepparent who might inherit them and pass them to their own children or from a spouse. However, a trust protector...
Estate planning is rarely urgent, but usually, when an estate plan is needed, it is already too late to create one. If you have established an estate plan, you have accomplished something that many people never get around to doing. However, you may not be done with...
Pennsylvania residents often revise their estate plans due to changing family situations or when changes are made to tax laws. Individuals sometimes pass away before they make important changes, but it may still be possible to revise estate plans that no longer serve...
For many families in Pennsylvania and throughout the country, it can be difficult to talk about money and mortality. However, by bringing up these topics in a sensitive manner, it can be possible to do so without starting any fights. Adult children who are thinking...
Creating a last will is an act that protects you, your wishes and the people that you love the most. Although many people find it unpleasant to spend time considering their future death, estate planning can often provide the peace of mind that comes from knowing their...
Music fans in Pennsylvania may remember learning about the estate problems that occurred after the passing of Aretha Franklin and Prince. Neither singer had an estate plan in place, causing legal battles and frustrated family members. Those who have worked hard and...
When it comes to estate planning in Pennsylvania, there are a number of things people should keep in mind besides having a will and one or more trusts in place. The creation of new asset categories and the passage of new regulations in recent years have changed the...