[column width=”1/1″ last=”true” title=”” title_type=”single” animation=”none” implicit=”true”] Estate planning is a crucial step to securing your assets and the well-being of your loved ones. Unfortunately, several myths persist, preventing many individuals from recognizing the importance of estate planning. So, let’s dispel some of these myths and misconceptions while shedding some light on the importance of...
Faces of Our Client Community: Kathy Wedemeyer & Mike Darrow
[column width=”1/1″ last=”true” title=”” title_type=”single” animation=”none” implicit=”true”] When Mike Darrow and Kathy Wedemeyer started the estate planning process, they didn’t have themselves in mind. They were thinking of their children. As they started their blended family, Kathy and Mike quickly realized that estate planning needed to be a part of the conversation. They weren’t just...
Urgent Estate Planning: Breaking the Procrastination Cycle
[column width=”1/1″ last=”true” title=”” title_type=”single” animation=”none” implicit=”true”] During the past several weeks at our firm, we’ve received several phone calls from frazzled family members. A loved one is in the hospital, sometimes even in hospice care, and they haven’t started working on estate planning documents. In these moments, we do our best to help these...
Antiques to Art: Tangible Personal Property in Estate Planning
[column width=”1/1″ last=”true” title=”” title_type=”single” animation=”none” implicit=”true”] This weekend I will head “home” to the Iowa farm where I was raised to celebrate Christmas with my parents and siblings and our families. My childhood home is still filled with many family heirlooms and antiques that were prevalent in my childhood memories. We will eat our...
Faces of Our Client Community: George Broostin
[column width=”1/1″ last=”true” title=”” title_type=”single” animation=”none” implicit=”true”] “You never know what life is going to hold for you,” says George Broostin of his decision to work on his estate planning. “Unexpected things can happen no matter what your age.” At the time, George and his husband, Jake, were making a life transition that involved a...
Guardianship Blunders: Avoid These Common Pitfalls
[column width=”1/1″ last=”true” title=”” title_type=”single” animation=”none” implicit=”true”] Avoid These 4 Mistakes When Naming Guardians for Your Children One of the hardest decisions to make when it comes to estate planning can be who to name as guardians for your child/ren. After all, our children are our legacy. Yes, passing on your financial assets is important,...
Estate Planning for Unmarried Couples: Protecting Your Loved Ones
[column width=”1/1″ last=”true” title=”” title_type=”single” animation=”none” implicit=”true”] Estate planning is often associated with married couples, but it’s just as crucial for couples who are not married. Whether you’re cohabitating — with or without children — or sharing real estate, taking proactive steps to protect your assets and ensure your loved ones’ well-being is essential. Laws...
Estate Planning After Divorce
[column width=”1/1″ last=”true” title=”” title_type=”single” animation=”none” implicit=”true”] The Importance of Updating Your Estate Planning After Divorce A crucial matter that often goes unnoticed or forgotten amidst the complexities of divorce is updating estate planning documents. Once a judge signs the final judgment and decree, it becomes essential for newly divorced couples to reassess and update...
Estate Planning Basics: Wills or Trusts?
[column width=”1/1″ last=”true” title=”” title_type=”single” animation=”none” implicit=”true”] During the initial stages of estate planning, one of the early questions you may face could be deciding between a will or a trust. Each person’s situation is unique, and your specific facts will determine the best course of action for you. It’s essential to note that estate...
Difficult Discussions: Consequences of Disinheritance
[column width=”1/1″ last=”true” title=”” title_type=”single” animation=”none” implicit=”true”] When celebrities disinherit their heirs, it creates some juicy gossip and clickbait. Making this decision for yourself, however, can feel heavy and overwhelming. There are many reasons why you may choose to disinherit a child or relative. Maybe your heir has become financially successful and no longer needs...