Creating your own estate plan may seem like a simple way to save time and money. However, a missed requirement or unclear provision could disrupt your wishes and place added strain on your family. If you are concerned about your assets, knowing where do-it-yourself...
Talking about inheritance with your children can feel uncomfortable. Some parents worry it will create unrealistic expectations. Others fear it will spark family conflict. Understanding the advantages and the risks can help you decide what level of disclosure makes...
Dealing with child custody can feel overwhelming. Knowing what to expect, however, can bring clarity to your situation. Minnesota law recognizes two distinct types of custody: legal custody and physical custody. Understanding the difference between the two is an...
Turning an idea into a business can feel exciting until legal forms and ownership questions crowd the picture. Early decisions may shape your control and ability to raise money. If you are an entrepreneur, this checklist may help you compare business entities and...
Many people assume that an inheritance will automatically remain separate property during a divorce, but the reality is more complicated. While inheritances are often treated differently than marital income or assets, how they are handled after receipt can determine...
A significant new federal rule took effect March 1, 2026, and if you are buying or selling residential real estate through a legal entity or trust, it applies to you. The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), a bureau of the U.S. Department of the Treasury,...
Gray divorce, the term often used to describe divorce after age 50, tends to inspire a distinct set of financial challenges that younger couples rarely face. For example, the “Social Security trap,” wherein the timing of a divorce can permanently affect benefits and...
Probate is “supposed to” bring order to the distribution of a deceased person’s estate, but that process can quickly become complicated when an unexpected heir comes forward. The appearance of a previously unknown child or spouse after a death often introduces legal...
Naming an executor is one of the most important decisions that an adult can make when estate planning, given the control over that individual’s legacy that an executor will ultimately be empowered by. Yet, this decision is too often made quickly and/or based on...
A trustee has an obligation to the beneficiaries of an estate. Specifically, they have a fiduciary duty. They should act in the best interests of beneficiaries by properly managing trust resources. Their goal should be to optimize what beneficiaries ultimately receive...