You’ve probably heard that trusts help families avoid probate court and protect assets for the people you love. Maybe you’ve even talked to a lawyer who mentioned including a trust in your will. It sounds like a good solution, but…
When you begin thinking about estate planning, one of the first questions you might ask is whether you need a will, a trust, or both. You may have heard conflicting information from friends, social media, or TV experts, which can…
When you’re ready to finally put an estate plan in place, it’s natural to feel excited and relieved. You’re taking a powerful step to protect your family, get organized, and make sure everything is handled the way you want if…
Many families focus on building wealth, but fewer think about keeping it. Research shows that a majority of wealthy families lose their wealth by the second generation, and by the third generation, the number climbs as high as 90%. That…
You’ve built a life with someone you love – sharing a home, experiences, and maybe even finances – but without legal marriage, the law doesn’t automatically recognize your relationship. That means if something happens to you, your partner could be…
When Anna Harp lost her father, Rudolph Clausing, she did not get to say goodbye. It was January 2021, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her dad had been battling lung disease when he contracted the virus, and strict…
Jimmy Buffett built an empire around the easygoing “Margaritaville” lifestyle—but his $275 million estate has become anything but relaxing for his loved ones. His widow and longtime business manager are now entangled in a bitter legal battle—one that could have…
Every Fourth of July, we celebrate more than fireworks and freedom. We honor the legacy of those who boldly created a future through planning and intention. The Declaration of Independence was not just a historic document; it is to protect…
This Mother’s Day, celebrate with more than flowers or chocolates. Instead, consider a gift that lasts for generations—a thoughtfully created estate plan. While it may not come wrapped in a bow, it may be the most profound expression of a…
If you’ve worked hard to build wealth, the estate tax — sometimes called the “death tax” — can feel like a final unfair blow. The proposed Death Tax Repeal Act of 2025 (DTRA) could eliminate this tax, significantly changing how…