If you have recently learned that you have been appointed as the Trustee of a trust, you may feel honored by the confidence the Settlor placed in you. At the same time, you may feel overwhelmed by the responsibilities that come with the position. Serving as Trustee comes with significant legal obligations and fiduciary duties that can expose you to personal liability if mistakes are made during the administration process. Many Trustees in Andover, New Hampshire initially wonder whether they … [Read more...] about Do I Need a Lawyer to Administer an Andover Trust?
When Estate Planning Documents Say One Thing—and Mean Another
Two recent conversations at Summit, one about blended family planning and one about trust language, highlight a challenge that shows up more often than attorneys might expect: clients and even attorneys sometimes read estate planning documents more literally than the drafters intended. This article explores how terms like "equal" and "irrevocable" can create real confusion and why helping clients understand how a plan actually functions matters just as much as how carefully it was drafted. … [Read more...] about When Estate Planning Documents Say One Thing—and Mean Another
The Consequences of Disinheritance in New Hampshire
Estate planning is often associated with providing for loved ones, preserving family wealth, and ensuring that assets are distributed according to your wishes. Most estate plans are designed to identify beneficiaries and establish a clear framework for transferring property after death. Occasionally, though, estate planning involves a different objective. Rather than determining who should receive assets, you may decide that a particular individual should not receive any portion of your estate. … [Read more...] about The Consequences of Disinheritance in New Hampshire
New Hampshire Guide to Trust Administration
Serving as a Trustee is both an honor and a serious legal obligation. When you accept this appointment in New Hampshire, you step into a fiduciary role that demands diligence, transparency, and strict adherence to the terms of the trust instrument. If this is your first time acting as Trustee, you may feel uncertain about the scope of your authority and the steps required to administer the trust properly. Careful preparation and professional guidance can help you navigate the process efficiently … [Read more...] about New Hampshire Guide to Trust Administration
Gift and Estate and Tax Figures for Your New Hampshire Estate Plan
With several significant federal tax updates taking effect in 2026, you should take this opportunity to reevaluate your estate plan if you reside in New Hampshire. These developments influence how you structure wealth transfers, plan charitable gifts, and manage retirement assets. A careful review allows you to adjust your strategy in a way that preserves more of your estate, supports your long-term goals, and maximizes tax efficiency for both you and your beneficiaries. To help you get started, … [Read more...] about Gift and Estate and Tax Figures for Your New Hampshire Estate Plan
The Importance of Planning for Long-Term Care Costs in New Hampshire
As people continue living longer, the possibility of eventually needing assistance with daily activities becomes increasingly likely. That reality creates serious financial concerns because long-term care services can continue for many months or even years. Without proper preparation, the cost of care can quickly consume retirement savings and other assets that you intend to preserve for a spouse, children, or future generations. Incorporating long-term care planning into your New Hampshire … [Read more...] about The Importance of Planning for Long-Term Care Costs in New Hampshire
10 Ways an Elder Law Attorney Might Be Able to Help You in Salem, New Hampshire
People often assume that elder law attorneys only assist with Wills or end-of-life planning, causing people to fail to recognize when it is time to consult an elder law attorney. As you age, or as you begin helping an older family member navigate complex legal and financial issues, you may encounter challenges that require specialized guidance. Knowing that elder law attorneys may be able to help is important. Elder law attorneys focus on how the legal system affects older adults and those … [Read more...] about 10 Ways an Elder Law Attorney Might Be Able to Help You in Salem, New Hampshire
Crisis Planning vs. Pre-Planning
People often procrastinate when it comes to estate planning, waiting for when circumstances feel more pressing or when they have time to devote to it. The timing of your planning decisions, however, has a direct impact on the effectiveness of your overall strategy. While estate planning may not be something you want to do, having a comprehensive estate plan in place allows you to retain control, preserve options, and create a structure that reflects your long-term objectives. Conversely, when … [Read more...] about Crisis Planning vs. Pre-Planning
That Would Never Happen: The Most Dangerous Words in Estate Planning
One of the most common—and dangerous—phrases in Estate Planning is “that would never happen.” This article explores how assumptions about family dynamics, relationships, and behavior often lead to unintended conflict, litigation, and failed plans. By examining where these assumptions break down, both attorneys and families can build Estate Plans designed to withstand real-world challenges. Continue reading to learn more. … [Read more...] about That Would Never Happen: The Most Dangerous Words in Estate Planning
Trustee Liability in New Hampshire
Accepting the role of Trustee places you in a position of authority that carries substantial legal exposure. You are not simply managing assets; you are acting on behalf of beneficiaries who depend on you to protect and administer property according to strict legal standards. Under New Hampshire law, a Trustee is bound by fiduciary obligations that demand careful judgment, loyalty, and full compliance with the governing trust document. When those obligations are not met, courts may hold you … [Read more...] about Trustee Liability in New Hampshire
