Estate planning plays a crucial role in protecting loved ones and assets. Unmarried couples need to pay attention because laws favor married couples, which can leave an unmarried partner without protections. Taking proactive steps can help ensure that each partner’s...
Estate Planning
Considerations for disinheriting family members in a will
Disinheriting a family member in a will is a major decision that no one should take lightly. It means deliberately excluding someone from receiving any part of your estate after your death. There may be valid reasons for choosing to disinherit. However, there are...
When to choose a guardian for your children in an estate plan
Choosing a guardian for your children is a crucial part of estate planning in Virginia. It's important to make this decision after careful consideration, as it can ensure your children's safety and future. If something happens to you, the right guardian can provide...
Understanding the importance of specificity in will drafting
Drafting a will is a popular method of estate planning. In your will, you can leave instructions for how to distribute your things, your preferences regarding burial, and more. It’s important to understand your options and how to ensure that loved ones can follow your...
Who should you choose as a guardian for your children?
A legal guardian is someone who would step in and care for your children if you could no longer do so. Choosing someone as a guardian is one aspect of the estate planning process. Selecting a guardian for your children is an important decision you need to make as a...
6 situations that require you to adjust your estate plan
A study from CNBC found that 33% of Americans have a current estate plan. These documents are important for securing your family's financial future. However, life is unpredictable, and situations change. You revisit and update your estate plan under certain...
How a power of attorney works in Virginia
In certain circumstances, you may find yourself unable to execute important financial, family or medical decisions. This could be due to various reasons such as physical or mental incapacitation, being out of the country or simply not having the time or expertise to...
Defending a will
To safeguard the wishes of a departed loved one in Virginia, it is important to understand the process of defending a will. The Commonwealth of Virginia has specific guidelines in place to ensure the orderly distribution of assets according to the deceased's...
What are some warning signs of undue influence?
When it comes to crafting a will or estate plan, it is important to ensure that the decisions made reflect the true intentions of the individual involved. However, there are instances where external pressures or undue influence can manipulate these crucial documents....
What documents to include in a basic estate plan
Creating an estate plan is an important step for Virginia residents. An estate plan helps ensure that your assets undergo distribution according to your wishes after your death. It also helps your loved ones establish financial security in your absence. There are...
