Blended Families: The Importance of Estate Planning in Second Marriages
When it comes to estate planning, second marriages present unique challenges, particularly when both partners have children from previous relationships and enter the marriage with assets. However, you can meet the long-term needs of your blended families with the help of an experienced estate planner and open communication. Common Issues with Estate Planning in Second Marriages […]
When Does Someone Really Need To Do Estate Planning?
Becky Cholewka: One of the questions I get asked the most is, “When does somebody actually really need to do a state planning?” I always have the same answer. If you are over the age of 18, you need to have documents in place. This is because you’re now an adult, and your parents can […]
10 Scams that Target Seniors: Elder Abuse and Financial Exploitation
Elder financial exploitation takes on many forms. Family, friends, and other trusted caregivers are typically the perpetrators of elder abuse such as physical abuse or neglect. However, financial exploitation falls into a different category. For one thing, the victim is more likely to consent to this form of abuse, because it often doesn’t appear abusive […]
Estate Planning and Same-Sex Couples
Now that the United States recognizes same-sex marriage in all 50 states plus the District of Columbia, every American enjoys the legal protections marriage offers. However, just like heterosexual couples, there are certain steps you must take to exercise those rights when it comes to estate planning. The Protections Offered by Marriage If the […]
How To Find The Right Estate Planning Attorney For You
Becky Cholewka: Good afternoon, everyone. I wanted to share some tips about how to find an estate planning attorney. I get this question all the time about, “How do I know if I’m hiring someone that is right for me?” Let me give you a couple of questions that you can go ahead and ask […]
Investing in Your Future: Annuities as Estate Planning Tools
For anyone looking for a long-term investment with guaranteed lifetime income, annuities present a viable option. These financial tools offer a wide range of benefits, with numerous options and flexibility. It’s important to note that an annuity is not a short-term investment. If you’re looking for quick returns, an annuity is not the answer. […]
Arizona Probate FAQ’s
Despite the wide availability information, the Arizona probate process continues to confuse many people. This may be due to there being a great deal of inaccurate information, much of it shared by well-meaning but misinformed family and friends. Probate has become synonymous with expensive and stressful. People don’t like the costs and time associated with […]
The Important Date You Need To Know In Arizona If You Already Have an Estate Plan
Becky Cholewka: A really important date to remember here in Arizona, is January 1st, 2009. That’s when the state completely overhauled our trust code. If you have documents that were created prior to that date, we pretty much know they need to be legally updated at this point in time. A good thing to do […]
What Out of State Estate Planning Documents May or May Not Work in Arizona
Becky Cholewka: Another important thing to remember about people who have documents and now reside in Arizona or snowboard here in Arizona, is that a will and a trust are good in any state. No matter if you are from Illinois and you now have an Illinois will, that will is still to be used […]
I’m Married, Why Do I Need an Estate Plan?
Becky Cholewka: There is a lot confusion with estate planning because some people just don’t understand what the myths are versus what actually happens under the law. One of the things we hear all the time is, “You know, I don’t need to get any document in place because I’m married, and everything will just […]