One of the most misunderstood aspects of estate planning is the difference between wills and trusts. Although speaking to an estate planning attorney is the best way to comprehend the differences, there are a few simple facts that can help you clarify the issue. The key differences between wills and trusts Whereas a will goes…

Early in a new year is the time when many people consider their life and how they are living it. Some even commit to making major changes to their circumstances or lifestyle. Such decisions can cover important elements of their current lifestyle, or how they wish it to be in the times ahead. Key considerations…

Should an individual become incapacitated, a financial power of attorney aims to designate an individual to pay that person’s bills and manage their financial affairs. This is also referred to as general power of attorney, or power of attorney for property. The document itself designates the person who is acting in that role. Our team…

No one wants to think too much about their passing. However, it’s best to be prepared so that our loved ones will know explicitly what your wishes are. Consider the following components for your estate plan: Healthcare Proxy: This gives a specific person the power to make health decisions for you if you can’t. Durable…

In most divorce settlement cases, the matter of alimony is crucial, especially for the financially dependent spouse who could be a stay-at-home dad or mum. The payment serves as compensation for their direct or indirect role in aiding their former spouse to acquire wealth. There are mainly three ways of paying alimony. The first one…

This is a question we are often asked by clients involved in many different legal situations. These have included divorce, child custody, maintenance, contested wills – and a range of business matters. The simple answer is that mediation can help, in many cases, to avoid protracted and costly litigation. Our family and estate attorney services,…

After making sure that you’re ready to welcome a new member to your family, it’s time to think about which path to adoption is right for you. One option is to adopt through the child welfare system. These are often children who were abused or neglected by their parents and thus placed under the custody…

Adoption can be a daunting process, but it doesn’t have to be if you are choosing a family attorney experienced in adoption law. A family attorney will guide you in selecting the right type of adoption for your circumstances, whether that’s an agency adoption, independent adoption, open or closed adoption. They can also file any…

Are you thinking of becoming a guardian to a minor child? If so, here is what you need to know. The court usually approves guardianships for minors You need to be at least 18 years of age and be a US resident to qualify for guardianship Guardianships protect the interests of the minor child. For…