When a loved one passes away, the probate court looks to the deceased's will to ensure the distribution of their estate according to their written intentions. The court does not assume full control of this process, however - it falls to a trusted individual named by...
Estate Plans
What duties and rights do I have as a guardian?
The process of guardianship administration addresses the needs of a disabled or incapacitated person who can no longer manage essential day-to-day or financial affairs. A potential guardian files a petition to become the caretaker of the estate, the person or both....
How to use trusts to protect wealth from tax, other threats
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...
Modifying an estate plan in Pennsylvania
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...
How to talk about estate planning goals
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...
Improve estate plans with these simple tips
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...
Estate planning changes require new focus
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...
Critical aspects of a power of attorney in estate plans
When crafting estate plans in Pennsylvania, there is much to consider. Frequently, people will concentrate on the basics like wills and trusts. However, some individuals can benefit from a power of attorney. Understanding the responsibilities that the agent will have...
Easy steps for creating an estate plan
Estate planning can be a difficult concept for many people in Pennsylvania and throughout the country. However, it may be easier to create a plan by breaking the process into different steps. The first step is to consider who the beneficiaries of the plan will be. For...
Naming a trust as a beneficiary of an IRA
A common way for Pennsylvania residents to save for retirement is with an individual retirement account (IRA). The potential problem with setting up an IRA is that the account holder could pass away before having the opportunity to take out the money at the...