In the state of Pennsylvania, the rules of inheritance can be complex and can depend on a variety of factors, such as whether or not you have a valid will in place, the nature of your assets, and the relationships of your surviving family members. However, it is not accurate to say that a spouse … [Read more...] about Does a Spouse Inherit Everything when you Die in the State of Pennsylvania?
Examples of Executor Misconduct (And What You Can Do to Protect Your Inheritance)
Executors hold powerful and trusted positions over the assets left to estate beneficiaries. Typically selected for their trustworthiness and financial abilities, most are honest and diligent in their estate management. Most are loyal to a Decedent’s wishes. However, some Executors engage in … [Read more...] about Examples of Executor Misconduct (And What You Can Do to Protect Your Inheritance)
Top 10 “Elder Law” Planning Mistakes
Failure to Plan – When someone passes away, the decedent’s planning and assets are captured in a “snapshot” that govern asset transfers and other events. With a proper plan, a person’s funeral, burial, transfer of assets, and post-death protections are executed consistent with their wishes. … [Read more...] about Top 10 “Elder Law” Planning Mistakes
Donor Advised Funds v. Private Foundation
Benefits of Charitable Giving In addition to giving back to the community, teaching a family good values, and feeling good about oneself, charitable giving has considerable tax benefits. Charitable contributions can reduce the tax burden at the end of the year. A gift to a qualified … [Read more...] about Donor Advised Funds v. Private Foundation
How to Avoid Probate in Pennsylvania: Mistakes to Avoid
Probate often incites feelings of dread, and with good reason. When an estate goes to probate, litigation can drag on for months. If the surviving heirs are highly contentious, probate may last for years. One of the most important questions clients ask a Pennsylvania estate planning lawyer is how to … [Read more...] about How to Avoid Probate in Pennsylvania: Mistakes to Avoid
7 Questions to Ask Your Estate Planning Attorney
Finding the right estate planning attorney to meet your financial interests can be daunting. Despite the importance of careful financial planning, no one enjoys thinking about their ultimate demise and how to best pass along their property and possessions. It may be tempting to allow the … [Read more...] about 7 Questions to Ask Your Estate Planning Attorney