Minnesota Lawyer Discusses Estate Planning for Married Couples in the Era of Trump. The day after the 2024 election, our firm received numerous calls from the LGBTQ+ community who are rightly concerned about future attacks on same-sex marriage. With the strong possibility of future efforts to overturn or challenge established precedents like Obergefell v. Hodges—the…
Continue reading…
When Should I Amend My Existing Trust?
Life is full of changes, and as your circumstances evolve, your trust may need to evolve, too. Have you recently experienced a significant life event, like a marriage, the birth of a child, or a shift in your financial situation? These moments often prompt the need to revisit and update your existing trust. When was…
Continue reading…
How Technology Has Affected and Streamlined Estate Planning
Technology has revolutionized nearly every aspect of our lives, and estate planning is no exception. Have you considered how digital advancements have made creating, managing, and securing your estate plan easier? From electronic wills to virtual consultations and cloud storage, the tools available today offer convenience and peace of mind that were hard to imagine…
Continue reading…
When Should I Update My Estate Plan?
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…
Continue reading…
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,…
Continue reading…
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…
Continue reading…
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…
Continue reading…
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…
Continue reading…
The Perils of Drafting an Estate Plan Using AI/ChatGPT
As artificial intelligence continues to integrate into our daily lives, tools like ChatGPT are emerging as helpers in various tasks, including drafting legal documents. But is using AI for something as crucial as your estate plan a good idea? This approach raises several concerns, from privacy issues to the accuracy of the legal content, which…
Continue reading…
Inheriting an IRA: Tax Implications and Distribution Strategies
If you’ve inherited an Individual Retirement Account (IRA), do you understand how it will affect your financial future? Grasping the nuances between Traditional and Roth IRAs is essential, as each comes with distinct tax implications and distribution mandates. Additionally, your relationship with the deceased, along with prevailing tax laws, also influences the fiscal outcome of…
Continue reading…