Estate Planning

The creation of an advance health care directive protects the person drafting the document. They can provide a clear explanation of their various medical preferences. They can also choose someone responsible and trustworthy to act as their medical agent. The primary...

When someone passes away, their estate has to be passed down to the next generation or other beneficiaries. If they have an estate plan and a will, that will be used in the distribution. If they do not, then it is known as dying intestate. State law will make the...

New parents have more of an incentive to estate plan than most other adults. They want to ensure the safety and well-being of their new children. It is easy to put off estate planning immediately after the birth of a child. There is an adjustment period as new parents...

When looking at the rules for probate proceedings, certain details tend to stand out. For example, those hoping to bypass or streamline the probate process generally have to show that an estate is relatively small to qualify for that option.  A small estate affidavit...

Many people believe estate planning is something to worry about during retirement. The truth is, it's a critical step for everyone, especially for young professionals and growing families in Virginia. Starting early is not just a good idea; it provides essential...

A life insurance policy can be a very significant gift to give to the next generation. You may have purchased a policy that will make up the bulk of their inheritance, leaving them significant financial assets. When you pass away, you know that the life insurance plan...

An estate plan can be used for many different things that will likely happen near the end of your life. For instance, your estate plan could include a living will or a medical power of attorney, determining how medical decisions should be made if you are...

Adapting to life in a blended family is a challenge for everyone. Parents who have focused primarily on their own children have to learn how to support their stepchildren. The children have to learn to live with more people in the household. The process of adjusting...

Thinking about what will happen next after you're gone isn’t easy, but it's necessary. Very soon you’ll find that one of the most important decisions in estate planning is choosing someone to carry out your wishes. Whether it’s managing your will or overseeing a...

Estate plans allow testators to provide for their dependents. They can also ensure that assets with emotional value transfer to the people closest to them. For some people, charitable giving may be an important aspect of their intended legacy. They may want to help...