May is Mental Health Awareness Month and this year, more than ever, it is important to raise awareness and reduce stigma. Mental illness can affect anybody, at any time. Treating a mental health condition is rarely an easy task, and recovery is oftentimes not a straight line. For some, a mental health condition and/or substance…
Even though pets are legally classified as property, they oftentimes mean much more – they are companions, friends and family. It is not only important to address assets and beneficiaries in your estate plan, but also to address what will happen to your pets should they outlive you. As is true with other aspects of…
If you have a child with autism, planning for the future can be daunting – but it is necessary to ensure a successful life for your autistic child after you are gone. As a parent of a child with autism, you are likely concerned with financially providing for that child, as well as making certain…
The internet makes information much more accessible than ever before, and with that accessibility, many people feel more comfortable attempting to do things themselves. It is easy to search engines to find Do-It-Yourself (“DIY”) guides and instructions for just about anything. However, many projects should be left to professionals – including legal documents. In my…
I was recently asked by a new client what I find to be the main thing couples struggle with when it comes to making, and agreeing on, estate planning decisions. It was an easy answer – naming who will be the guardian(s) of their children. Not only is this an important decision, but it is…
It’s a New Year, and for many people that means a time to regroup and reset. It’s a time to reflect on finances, health, habits and goals – and to visualize what you would like to accomplish in the upcoming year. Most common New Year’s goals include improving health, increasing exercise, and making better financial…
Sarah cries when she relays the story while preparing lunch for her frail, elderly mother who suffers from dementia. A year ago, Sarah and her sister hired a young woman to help care for their mother on Mondays while the sisters both worked. Things seemed to be going well until Sarah received a call from…
Legally, pets are classified as property, but to owners, they mean much more than that. Pets are companions, best friends, and members of the family. For many people, pets are an integral part of the family. A pet gives unconditional love. But what happens to our pets when we can no longer care for them?…
“In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.” Benjamin Franklin With this famous line written in 1789, Benjamin Franklin offered a friend some wisdom that has become one of his most-quoted quips. While some taxes are certain, Estate and Inheritance tax laws continue to evolve. An Estate Tax is…
The idea of discussing your parent’s finances and estate planning can seem overwhelming and incredibly intimidating. After all, this is oftentimes the type of questions parents ask their children – not the other way around. However, as challenging as it can be to initiate this conversation, it is important to do so in order to…
