Selecting a trustee is one of the most important—and most misunderstood—decisions in Estate Planning. While many individuals focus on who will receive their assets and how those assets will be distributed, far fewer consider the impact the Trustee will have on the management and distribution of those assets. This article explores why trustee selection matters, common pitfalls that lead to conflict and litigation, and how thoughtful planning can help preserve both family harmony and a lasting … [Read more...] about Trustee Selection: Why It Matters and How to Get It Right
Steps to Take Following the Loss of a Loved One in New Hampshire
Losing a loved one is a deeply emotional experience, and the practical responsibilities that follow can feel overwhelming. While it is essential to allow time to grieve, you must also confront important legal and financial matters. Knowing what practical steps need to be taken as well as the legal and financial issues that must be addressed is crucial. Toward that end, the attorneys at Legacy Care Law Firm explain the steps you need to take following the loss of a loved one in New … [Read more...] about Steps to Take Following the Loss of a Loved One in New Hampshire
When Estate Planning Fails: Family Infighting and the $10 Billion Lakers Sale
The recent $10 billion sale of the Los Angeles Lakers provides a powerful cautionary tale about Estate Planning, family conflict, and business succession. Despite a sophisticated Trust designed to keep ownership in the Buss family, structural flaws and sibling rivalries ultimately dismantled Jerry Buss’s legacy. This case illustrates why even well-drafted Estate Plans can fail when they ignore real-world dynamics. Learn the critical lessons every family business owner should consider before it’s … [Read more...] about When Estate Planning Fails: Family Infighting and the $10 Billion Lakers Sale
How Specific Devises Impact Inheritance
Parents often decide to leave one child a specific asset and provide an equalizing cash bequest to the other. This article explores how specific bequests may provide unintended results. Continue reading to learn more. … [Read more...] about How Specific Devises Impact Inheritance
Tax Planning for 2025 and Beyond
Planning is important for your income taxation during life as well as for any estate taxes at death. With year-end approaching, it is an ideal time to begin planning for the year ahead. As Benjamin Franklin said: “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about Tax Planning for 2025 and Beyond
Don’t Be a Turkey or a Ham- Take Advantage of Your Annual per Donee Exclusion Amount
The holidays are a great time to review the past year and make plans for the upcoming one. Part of those plans should be reviewing your Estate Plan and considering what, if any, steps you should take to help you achieve your goals. One of the easiest, but most overlooked, ways to do some quick planning is to take advantage of the annual per donee exclusion amount which can have a tremendous impact on reducing the estate without use of the applicable exclusion amount. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about Don’t Be a Turkey or a Ham- Take Advantage of Your Annual per Donee Exclusion Amount
Balancing Efficiency and Excellence: The Perils of Boilerplate in a Busy Estate Planning Practice
The past few years have brought more people than ever to the world of Estate Planning. Whether prompted by global uncertainty, changes in tax law, or a desire for peace of mind, families and individuals are eager to put their affairs in order. At the same time, attorneys have worked tirelessly to meet that demand—often managing more clients and cases than ever before. With this increased volume, efficiency has become essential. But in the rush to serve everyone well, it’s important not to … [Read more...] about Balancing Efficiency and Excellence: The Perils of Boilerplate in a Busy Estate Planning Practice
Fall Summit 2025: Accountability in Action
The best Estate Planners know that staying current on the latest trends and developments is essential to serving their clients with excellence. That’s why the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys hosts its semi-annual conference, providing education and learning for and inspiring excellence in its Members. Read on to learn more about the unique experience at the conference. … [Read more...] about Fall Summit 2025: Accountability in Action
Preparing for FinCEN Real Estate Reporting
Although the Corporate Transparency Act’s Beneficial Ownership Information reports no longer apply to domestic entities due to their exemption, another FinCEN requirement is moving full steam ahead, and estate planning attorneys should not overlook it. Starting December 1, 2025, professionals involved in real estate closings and settlements will be required to submit reports to FinCEN for certain non-financed transfers of residential property to legal entities or trusts. Continue reading to … [Read more...] about Preparing for FinCEN Real Estate Reporting
What Football and Estate Planning Have in Common
I, like many Americans, love football. As I settled in to watch my team’s game this week, I wondered if I could turn it into a blog. As I watched, I realized, in fact, football and Estate Planning share many commonalities. Continue reading to learn more. … [Read more...] about What Football and Estate Planning Have in Common
