Trustees play an essential role in estate planning. The decisions they make have consequences for all parties involved. That is why, if you are a beneficiary in a trust, you must understand the trustee's responsibilities. This will allow you to identify wrongdoing and...
Estate Litigation
The consequences of dying without a will
When a person passes away without a will, the legal term for that is dying “intestate,” so a court, called a probate court, takes charge of the distribution of that person’s assets according to state law. Intestate succession Without a will, the court will distribute...
When should you update or change an existing will?
Life is constantly changing, and sometimes these changes can affect your legal and financial interests long-term. As these things occur, it may be necessary to update plans and strategies for the future. After certain types of life changes, it is necessary to update...
What is a special needs trust in Minnesota?
If you are a parent, grandparent, family member or friend of someone who has special needs or suffers from a chronic disability, you may be concerned about their financial future and wonder how you can protect them so they can receive medical care and enjoy the best...
Do you suspect that undue influence affected a loved one’s plans?
The intent of creating an estate plan is to have control over certain details of the future. For example, creating a will can provide one with the ability to have the final say over what happens to personal property after passing. Other estate planning documents can...
The ideal way to transfer wealth to your heirs
Each person has individual and specific estate planning goals, but one of the most common is ensuring the proper transfer of wealth after passing. It can be intimidating to consider what will happen after you pass, but with the right plans in place, you can be certain...
What is the process of contesting a will?
After the loss of a loved one, your family may have to face the responsibility of settling his or her estate. This can be a complex process, especially during a time of grief, and it can be devastating to learn that the instructions left behind by the decedent do not...
What should be in your estate plan?
Planning for the future can be a complex and difficult process, and many Minnesota adults avoid taking this step for that reason. To create an estate plan that will provide the right amount of protection, it is necessary to consider what will happen to your property...
Can you contest life insurance beneficiary designations?
Settling the estate of a loved one can be a complicated process, especially if you find that certain aspects are not as you expected them to be. As your family walks through the legal requirements of probate and other steps you have to take to settle remaining estate...
The rights and responsibilities of the executor?
Grieving families must face the task of settling the estate of a loved one after his or her death. This can be a difficult process during a time of loss and transition, and the executor has the responsibility of overseeing the necessary steps to complete this task. If...