Many people invest in collectibles. Sometimes it’s an intentional investment; other times, the collection accrues simply from the love of collecting. And sometimes, people come into a collection as part of an inheritance without even realizing it has additional value. Interestingly enough, the collectibles market can be just as volatile as any financial market. In… Read More »
Developing an estate plan is a crucial part of preparing for the future. But it’s not just your future you’re planning for; it’s the future of your family, your legacy, and beyond. Unfortunately for many families, estate planning is often something that gets sidelined. People don’t want to have frank discussions about the future, including… Read More »
When my father was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, we found ourselves really thinking about the future. Our family had to think about everything from long-term care to my father’s estate. It was a lot. But it gave our family a perspective many of our clients have. In one form or another, the unknown is something… Read More »
When a couple who has been married for several years decides to end their marriage, their reasons are usually complex. It may be that after decades together, they have grown apart or because of something as devastating as an affair. While divorce can be one of the most financially and emotionally devastating experiences a person… Read More »
When veteran television and film star Burt Reynolds passed away last year at the age of 82, several shocking headlines such as “Burt Reynolds Left Son out of Will” appeared in connection with a story about his estate. As it turns out, Mr. Reynolds left the bulk of his assets to his only son through… Read More »
Owing property with another person usually means that you get half and the other person gets half. If one person were to pass away his or her interest in their half of the property would either pass to their heirs as part of their estate or, under certain conditions, may belong to the other owner… Read More »
Witnessing someone you love suffer as they succumb to illness or disease is emotionally devastating. Although you may be aware of the prognosis, it can be difficult to envision what your loved one will experience during his or her final days. The term hospice care usually surfaces in this situation, but not everyone knows what… Read More »
When you enter your retirement years, there will be changes to multiple aspects of your life. Some of your primary concerns will probably involve healthcare coverage, income, paying for long-term care, and estate planning. Each area is complex and has its own laws and requirements. Therefore, to address all of your legal needs successfully and… Read More »
When planning for your estate, there are different ways you can plan to pass assets to your chosen beneficiaries. One choice is to create a living trust which allows you, the creator, the flexibility to make changes and benefit from trust assets during your lifetime, and avoid probate after you are gone. Here are some… Read More »
In Michigan, part of your estate plan should include a durable power of attorney for finances or “POA”. Your POA allows you to name someone to act in your place concerning your finances should you become unable to do so. While you may not anticipate needing a POA for many years or at all, an… Read More »