When a Pennsylvania resident dies without an estate plan, it creates certain challenges. It typically delays the distribution of an individual’s assets, and it may, too, raise the chances of inheritance conflicts arising. It may, too, mean that the deceased...
Estate Planning & Administration
Revisiting your will periodically is essential
Creating a will many years ago was really sensible. However, after that, you might have put it in your safe or filing cabinet and just forgotten about it entirely. That may have been several decades ago and if you did not update your will since then, it may no longer...
Who makes the best executor?
An executor of an estate holds a crucial position. In fact, it is the most important position in the entire estate plan. As such, it is important for people to take a lot of time before choosing their executor. It is also important to have an idea of what makes a good...
Is a family trust right for your estate plan?
While we know it is important to think about the future, it can be difficult to think about certain events. Death is one of those events. Although it is a fate each of us will face, no one wants to truly think about their demise and leaving their loved ones behind....
Crafting a comprehensive estate plan
When Virginia residents begin to tackle the important task of estate planning, they come to it from different perspectives. Many have already completed quite a bit of research into the various options that are available to consider in the estate planning process. Some...
Reasons to avoid probate
Readers of this blog have heard of the probate process because it is part of the estate administration process. And, this post will give an overview and why it should be avoided whenever possible in the 81 corridor. First, the term, “probate” refers to the judicial...
Writing or adding to a will and how it impacts validity
In Virginia, estate planning is a fundamental aspect of being fully prepared for the future. Having a will details how a person’s property will be distributed and serves other important needs. However, a will might need to be updated from the time it is written and...
What will happen to your beloved pet after you pass away?
Pet owners in Shenandoah Valley love their animal companions and view them as members of the family, so it may be distressing to learn your pet will be considered personal property rather than a family member with inheritance rights should you die. It is important to...
What documents should be included in an estate plan?
Everyone should have an estate plan because an estate plan can protect the interests of the estate planners and can also protect their family and ensure they are cared for. Estate planners should know about the different estate planning tools that can help them...
What kind of trust can you choose for your elderly parent?
As your parents age, caring for their financial wellness is often just as important as looking after their physical and emotional well-being. Establishing a trust can prevent the loss of money via fraud and dishonest individuals from draining your elderly parents'...