Choosing an Executor
When we die, somebody will need to handle our estates. That means gathering and protecting our assets, dealing with our creditors and making sure our assets are distributed as specified in our Wills. That person (or persons) is called the...[Continue reading]
Divorce & Estate Planning Go Together
Divorce and estate planning go together. Not exactly like peanut butter and jelly, which some people know is one of my favorite lunch sandwiches, but they are a logical combination. As part of a divorce, individuals make a lot of...[Continue reading]
Holidays
Holidays can be stressful for everybody. They can be wonderful and joyous celebrations, but they can also involve lots of planning, preparation and possibly unrealistic expectations. Add the process of divorce or the loss of a loved one into the...[Continue reading]
Digital Assets
What are your digital assets? What happens to your digital assets upon your death? Who has the authority to handle your digital assets if you are incapacitated or incapable of managing them? ...[Continue reading]
Wills and Unmarried Couples
In many instances, it is even more important for unmarried couples to have Wills in place than it is for married couples. That’s because the state has developed a default estate plan for married individuals that includes their spouse. This...[Continue reading]
COVID-19 Effects
Our office is open, we are meeting with clients, the court system is operating, but everything is different. The Covid-19 pandemic has changed how all of these things in the legal world happen. Our office was closed for about 8...[Continue reading]
Attorney’s Fees in Estate Planning
If an attorney is preparing your Will, trust agreement, powers of attorney, etc., you will need to pay him or her. Many attorneys (including me) charge a flat fee for estate planning services. That means you decide what documents you...[Continue reading]
What Happens if I Die Without a Will?
If you die without a Will, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has a default plan in place that determines who receives your assets. Dying without a valid Will is called intestacy, so distribution of assets without a valid Will is controlled...[Continue reading]
When Should I Think About Getting a Will?
Assuming you are over the age of eighteen and are of sound mind, you should think about getting a Will right now. Many people think about having a Will prepared when they experience some major life change, such as divorce,...[Continue reading]
Who is Capable of Making a Will?
The short answer - almost everyone over the age of 18 is capable of making a Will. The law states that you must be at least 18 years of age and of sound mind to make a valid Will. The...[Continue reading]