Barnes Lipscomb & Stewart PLLC Blog Digest

Where Is the Proper Venue for Probate Litigation in Multi-State Estates?

Creating a trust is only the first step — ensuring that your assets are properly transferred into it is what makes your plan work.

A retired farmer has one child working on the farm, while a second child lives far away. The man thinks he doesn’t need a will because his situation is straightforward, and the children will work things out since they’re smart and respectful. This approach is asking for trouble on many different levels. The article, “If you’re relying on your kids to ‘just figure it out’ after you’re gone, here’s your wake-up call,” appearing in Tri State Alert, explains just how many problems this mindset can create. Even before addressing the distribution of assets, the family may face a long-term care…

Estate planning is evolving rapidly, and staying informed about the latest trends is essential for protecting your assets and ensuring your wishes are carried out.

The names on your accounts can override your will, so accurate designations keep assets moving to the right people without delay.

Verbal promises about inheritances often fail when the written estate plan says otherwise. This disconnect fuels sibling disputes that can fracture families and deplete estates.

Charitable giving through your estate plan allows you to leave a lasting legacy, support causes you care about and create potential tax benefits for your heirs.

For most families, the estate planning process is more involved than simply naming beneficiaries. While the primary goal of estate planning is transferring assets in an orderly and tax-efficient manner, it’s just as important to focus on preserving wealth across generations.