Trusts are a common, yet diverse, estate planning tool. There are trusts for different purposes, with different terms and provisions. Some trusts, called testamentary trusts, are created by the settlor’s Will after his or her death. But many trusts are established during the lifetime of the settlor. When you consider establishing a trust, it’s important to...

Every trust contains a trust maker, a trustee, and at least one beneficiary. Trusts vary, however, in why and how they are established. Before creating and funding a trust, it’s important to know a little about the different types of trusts. In this blog, we’ll take a look at the difference between revocable trusts and irrevocable...

Sometimes, simple is not best. Estate planning should be tailored to meet the needs of your life, and sometimes that life is complicated. High Net Worth estate planning strategies may be right for you. Basic estate planning is . . . A simple plan typically includes a Will, a durable power of attorney, a healthcare power...

Trusts have been a powerful, yet evolving, estate planning tool for a long time. As trusts have changed, the need for extra protection and a way to modify trusts became apparent. Trust protectors, sometimes also known as Trust Advisors, may meet both needs. Just as it’s important to understand the type of trust that is appropriate...

Have you created a gun trust yet? Some estate assets require a little more care than others. It’s not difficult to leave someone the family china, but firearms are a different story. Some guns are strictly regulated, and passing them incorrectly can cause real problems. Gun trusts are created primarily to provide a way to handle...

Trusts are a common estate planning tool. Reasons to create and fund a trust range from asset protection to providing for someone with special needs. Some trusts even have similar purposes. Two such trusts are the spendthrift and discretionary trust – similar enough, but with significant differences. Knowing which trust to use is critical. Trusts in...

What Exactly is a Spendthrift Clause?. Most of the time, we have the best intentions when deciding who will get our property after we’re gone. A well-crafted, comprehensive estate plan can give the maker a sense of accomplishment, contentment, and serenity. During the estate planning process, though, people start to ask some hard questions about their...

When you’re the caregiver of a loved one with special needs, you make important decisions every day. Sometimes those decisions are life-changing – for you and your loved one. Often, caregivers enlist the help of experts: therapists, medical specialists, and other advisers. It’s also important to consult with an attorney. An attorney who understands the needs...

Perhaps a family member or close friend has asked to name you to be their agent under a power of attorney. It sounds like an easy thing to do, but you’re not sure what your responsibilities would be. Before you say ‘yes,’ here are some things you should know about serving as someone’s agent under a...

Establishing dynasty trusts has some major benefits for those seeking to protect generational wealth. One of the primary purposes of dynasty trusts is to shelter family assets from the effects of transfer taxes for generations. Here’s what you need to know about them. What are dynasty trusts? The purpose of the dynasty trust is similar to...