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
“Let’s Go Crazy” … Over Prince’s Estate
When Prince died over nine (9) years ago, he shocked his fans one last time. Turns out, his unexpected death wasn’t the last surprise. Prince died without an Estate Plan causing his siblings to spend the next six years fighting over his Estate. Continue reading to learn more. … [Read more...] about “Let’s Go Crazy” … Over Prince’s Estate
Hulk Hogan and Disclaimers…?
When Terry Bollea, aka “Hulk Hogan,” died on July 24 at age 71 in his Clearwater, Florida home, I wondered if I’d have another celebrity estate gone awry to discuss. I found something different but equally important for Estate Planning practitioners: disclaimers. Continue reading to learn more. … [Read more...] about Hulk Hogan and Disclaimers…?
National Make-a-Will Month
Although many Estate Plans have a Revocable Trust as the foundation for the plan, Wills play an important role in a comprehensive Estate Plan. Alarmingly, most Americans don’t have a Will even though they know it’s important. As National Make a Will month comes to a close, let’s explore the often overlooked and neglected Estate Planning document, the Will. Continue reading to learn more. … [Read more...] about National Make-a-Will Month
In Loving Memory of All the Pets Who Have Crossed the Rainbow Bridge
The grief of putting my dog down got me wondering about how animals process grief and how much harder it may be for them since they lack the ability to put their feelings into words the way that humans can. Thus, the idea for this blog focusing on options for pets upon the death of their owners was born. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about In Loving Memory of All the Pets Who Have Crossed the Rainbow Bridge
The Big Lesson from Tony Bennett’s Embattled Estate and Troubled Trust
When one child occupies a position of trust with a parent to the exclusion of other siblings, that causes friction. Extending that position of power after death exacerbates that friction and may cause irreparable harm. It seems that happened upon the death of beloved singer, Tony Bennett. His daughters have sued their brother on two different occasions leveling some unflattering allegations. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about The Big Lesson from Tony Bennett’s Embattled Estate and Troubled Trust
A Hole in Hackman’s Plan
Eugene Allen Hackman enjoyed a prolific acting career that spanned several decades. In a bizarre sequence of events, seemingly ripped from a movie script, his death raised questions and exposed some flaws in both his end-of-life planning and his Estate Plan. Gene’s final act didn’t result in a happy ending, but rather a tragic tale full of warnings to those who care to listen. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about A Hole in Hackman’s Plan
