4 strategies to prevent disputes and protect loved ones Family dynamics are complicated, perhaps more so than ever before. Yet despite the growing prevalence of blended families, people still put off writing or updating an estate plan. This can have catastrophic consequences. Imagine a long-term common-law spouse receiving nothing on an intestacy while the deceased’s…

They represent both emotional and financial significance — here’s how to manage Estate settlement, even in the best of circumstances, is a demanding responsibility. But for many families — and particularly for estate trustees who are already juggling work, caregiving, distance and time constraints — the most difficult part is the house and its contents….

Don’t talk to seniors about their estate plans — the real prospects are future executors How do you eat an elephant? It may seem an odd question — it was first posed by Bishop Desmond Tutu of South Africa, when he sought an amusing way to raise the spirits of his people during a difficult…

What to ask, when to ask and why it works Imagine this scenario: You’re at a social gathering with family and friends. Someone you’ve known for years walks over, exchanges a few pleasantries and then asks, “How do you help your clients reduce probate fees on their estates?” Much like I did early in my…