When someone dies with a revocable living trust, family members often receive a copy of the trust in the mail along with a letter from the trustee. That letter may start a short clock. Under Minn. Stat. § 501C.0605, a person who wants to contest the validity of a...
The federal estate tax now reaches very few families. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed in July 2025, set the federal exemption at $15 million per person for 2026, indexed for inflation going forward. A married couple can shelter about $30 million. Minnesota did...
As of August 1, 2026, Minnesotans can sign trusts, powers of attorney, health care directives, and many guardianship and probate documents electronically. The Legislature adopted the Uniform Electronic Estate Planning Documents Act this spring (2026 Minn. Laws ch. 45,...
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...