Have you ever wondered if your estate plan is up-to-date? Life is full of changes, from marriages and births to new financial milestones. These events can significantly impact your existing plans. It’s easy to overlook updating your estate documents, but ensuring they reflect your current situation is crucial. Are you confident that your estate plan…
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The First Things to Do When Inheriting an Estate in Minnesota
Have you recently received an inheritance and are unsure what to do next? Managing a new financial windfall can be overwhelming, especially when emotions are involved. Whether it’s cash, property, or investments, making informed decisions is crucial to securing your financial future. How do you balance immediate needs with long-term planning? Here, we’ll explore the…
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Necessities to Include in Your Guardianship Petition
Are you preparing to file a guardianship petition in Minnesota and feeling unsure about where to start? Understanding what to include in your petition is vital for a successful submission. From detailing the needs of the person requiring assistance to outlining the qualifications of the proposed guardian, each section plays an important role. We’ll break…
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How Long Does Probate Take in Minnesota?
Probate is the process in which a deceased person’s assets are gathered, debts are paid, and assets are distributed to beneficiaries. Basically, it is the court-overseen process of wrapping up a person’s affairs. Probate can be a lengthy process. In fact, the time it takes for probate to complete is a major reason many people…
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What Happens If Your Heir Doesn’t Want What You Are Giving?
There was a time, in the not-too-distant past, when inheriting something was a benefit and nothing but good news. But, with the crash of ’07 and the subsequent plummeting of real estate values, that’s no longer true. Probate lawyers such as myself are increasingly answering the question: What if I don’t want it? For instance,…
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What Is Trust Litigation?
Have you ever wondered what happens when a family disagrees over a trust? Maybe you’ve faced or heard about conflicts involving trust terms or trustee actions. Trust litigation addresses these disputes, whether they stem from misunderstandings, misconduct, or undue influence. It’s a process for resolving conflicts and ensuring everyone’s interests are fairly represented. This blog…
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Adoption vs. Guardianship: Understanding the Differences
Are you considering providing a stable and loving environment for a child in need? You might be wondering whether adoption or guardianship is the best option for your family. Both paths offer unique benefits and challenges, and understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re looking for a permanent solution or…
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Understanding Minnesota Inheritance Challenges for LGBTQ Families
Estate planning can be complex, particularly for LGBTQ families. In Minnesota, inheritance laws may pose unique challenges for non-traditional families, which could result in unintended consequences. Issues with intestate succession and recognition of relationships can complicate the transfer of assets and guardianship. How can LGBTQ families ensure that their wishes are honored and their loved…
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Should You Choose Informal or Formal Probate?
Probate is the legal process through which the estate of a deceased person is settled and distributed to heirs and beneficiaries. In Minnesota, you can choose between informal or formal probate, each catering to different circumstances, but how do you determine which type of probate process might best suit your situation? Understanding the differences between…
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Minnesota Probate Law: Intestate Succession Rules for Inheritance
Do you know who would inherit your estate if you were to pass away without a will? In such circumstances, intestate succession laws in Minnesota determine how your assets are distributed. These rules ensure that your property is transferred to your closest relatives, but the specifics might surprise you. Understanding these laws can help ensure…
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