You’ve unpacked the boxes, painted the walls, and maybe even planted flowers out front. But here’s something most people forget to do after buying a home: update their estate plan. What would happen to your new home if something unexpected occurred tomorrow? Buying a house is a big step—both emotionally and financially. That’s why it’s…
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How to Prepare for Probate and Estate Administration in Advance
If something unexpected happened tomorrow, would your loved ones know what to do? Probate—a court-supervised process that ensures their final wishes are carried out and debts are settled—can be a complex and time-consuming process, especially without a plan in place. Taking the time to prepare now can help reduce confusion, minimize delays, and make things…
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How Advance Directives Relate to Guardianship
What if the unexpected happened tomorrow—would your loved ones know what to do? We don’t like to think about losing the ability to make our own decisions, but it’s something we all need to consider. Health emergencies and cognitive decline can change life in an instant. That’s where advance directives and guardianship come into play….
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What Evidence Is Needed in the Guardianship Process?
When someone you love is no longer able to make safe or informed decisions, you may find yourself asking: How do I prove they need help? It’s a question we hear often, and it’s an important one. Starting the guardianship process in Minnesota means preparing to show the court not only that a loved one…
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How to Protect Your Retirement Account with Estate Planning
Retirement accounts often make up a large portion of your savings. After years of contributing and planning for the future, you want to be sure those funds are protected. But here’s a question worth asking: what actually happens to your retirement account if something happens to you? Many people assume their account will automatically transfer…
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Managing Digital Assets in Estate Administration
In today’s world, so much of what we value lives online—photos, messages, financial records, and even money. But what would happen if no one could access your email, cloud storage, or digital accounts after you’re gone? As our digital lives grow, so does the need to account for them in estate planning. From social media…
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How Can a Guardianship Be Terminated?
When someone is placed under guardianship, it’s usually because a court decided they needed help making important life decisions. But what happens when that person’s condition improves or the situation changes? Does the guardianship have to continue? The short answer is no—not always. In Minnesota, there’s a clear process to end a guardianship when it’s…
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Everything You Need to Know About Spendthrift Trusts
What if you could protect your hard-earned assets while still providing for a loved one? Not everyone is prepared to handle a large inheritance, and financial risks like debt, lawsuits, or reckless spending can quickly drain an estate. A spendthrift trust offers a way to ensure your money is used wisely. Instead of giving full…
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What Happens to a House in Probate?
Losing a loved one is difficult, and dealing with their estate can add stress to an already overwhelming time. If they owned a home, you may be wondering what happens to the property and how long the process of transferring it will take. Who is responsible for managing the property, and what steps need to…
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Are There Any Assets That Are Excluded During Probate?
What happens to your assets when you pass away? Many people assume everything must go through probate, but that’s not always the case. Some assets transfer directly to beneficiaries, avoiding court delays and extra costs. Knowing which assets bypass probate can help you protect your estate and make things easier for your loved ones. Without…
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