Learn from the past, set vivid, detailed goals for the future, and live in the only moment of time over which you have any control: now.
– Denis Waitley
One of the advantages of a living trust is that the assets held within it are not subject to probate, which can be a complicated, drawn-out and costly process. As such, many people automatically choose living trusts as they plan their estates. But there is another type of trust: a testamentary trust. While probate is […]
Because estate planning involves preparation for the disposition of assets after death, people often feel uncomfortable discussing it. It can be especially challenging for people to face planning with their children. But serious challenges can arise from a lack of communication between estate grantors and their children (their most likely beneficiaries and executors) before death
Good estate planning depends on good communication with loved ones Read More »
Divorce proceedings can be expensive as well as time-consuming and emotionally draining on the main parties involved. An array of issues, including the division of property, child custody, alimony and other items of contention can prove to be the catalyst for a contentious, drawn-out affair in court. Mediation is often suggested as a viable alternative
When Mediation Is Not the Best Way to Resolve a Divorce Read More »
The term probate may evoke foreboding thoughts among many who hear it, but essentially the word means the act of validating and recording the will of a deceased person with the court that has jurisdiction. In the case of the commonwealth of Virginia, that court is the Circuit Court, and it is the proper filing
Where There Is a Valid Will There Is a Proper Way to File in Probate Court Read More »
It is usually considered an honor to be asked to assume the role of the executor of an estate for a relative or friend. Still, the challenges of the position, particularly those of more complex estate situations, can sometimes overwhelm an executor. In such circumstances, the services of an experienced attorney can provide excellent support.
The Role of Executor of an Estate May Call for an Attorney’s Help Read More »
A famous purveyor of gemstones and the author of the James Bond spy novels would remind us that diamonds are forever, and that is as romantic a thought as it is geologically accurate. However, for couples whose romance is on the rocks, it is probably wise to remember that web postings are forever as well.
Spouses with Fondness for Online Flirting May Rue Act If Marriage Ends in Divorce Read More »
Many people have specific wishes about the actions they want taken (or not taken) in a medical crisis. However, during a crisis, you may be incapacitated and unable to make such decisions. To ensure your wishes will be obeyed, it is important to document them in an advance medical directive. An advance medical directive, also
Document Health Care Wishes With an Advance Medical Directive Read More »
When a couple is divorcing amidst significant disagreements concerning division of property, child custody, alimony and other issues, mediation can be a less expensive alternative to litigation. A divorce trial is an expensive undertaking, but when the divorcing parties are far from agreement, it is sometimes a necessity. However, mediation can help a case reach
Mediation Can Help Resolve Conflict Read More »
When spouses divorce in Virginia, the law requires an equitable distribution of marital property. Generally, all property will be defined as marital property or separate property. Marital property is property acquired during the marriage using marital funds; it belongs to both spouses and it must be divided equitably upon divorce. Separate property is property that
Understanding “Hybrid” Property in a Virginia Divorce Read More »
Saving for retirement is made easier by tax-advantaged accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs. Here is what you should know about these accounts. A 401(k) is a retirement savings account provided by one’s employer, who may also match the employee’s contributions up to a certain amount. Contributions are deducted from an employee’s paycheck before taxes, so
Use Tax-Advantaged Accounts for Retirement Savings Read More »
