Blended families have become relatively common. When parents with young children divorce, they may eventually find new romantic connections. If they marry someone who also has children from a prior relationship, what results is a blended family. The parents each have...
Probate & Estate Law
Digital assets in estate planning: Preserving your digital legacy
In the digital age, our online identities and assets form a significant part of our lives. From social media accounts and digital photo libraries to cryptocurrencies and online subscriptions, these assets hold both financial and sentimental value. Because of the high...
No-contest clauses are genuine concerns in Minnesota trusts
Trusts are a must-have estate planning tool because they offer flexibility and control over asset distribution after the grantor’s passing. However, disputes can arise, and beneficiaries may have legitimate concerns about a trust’s administration. In Minnesota, trusts...
Why the influence of a caregiver could lead to probate litigation
Caregivers help to support those who are vulnerable and incapable of meeting certain needs for themselves. Children require caregivers, as do those with disabling medical conditions. Many older adults, especially those with health challenges, also require caregivers...
Can you undo payable on death designations?
The estate planning process isn't just about drafting wills and funding trusts to guide the probate process. It also frequently involves planning to keep certain assets out of probate court altogether. Attaching a payable on death or transfer on death designation to a...
What happens during the probate process in Minnesota?
Probate proceedings have a bad reputation. Many people are eager to avoid probate at all costs. However, court oversight of estate administration occurs for a reason. Some people might embezzle from an estate without any oversight of how they manage the assets someone...
Common probate disputes that may lead to litigation
Probate often can be a complicated process. The estate must be settled, and many tasks completed. But along the way there is the possibility for disagreements to surface, leading to litigation. Disputes happen, whether among family members or due to an executor...
Am I responsible for my parents’ debt after they die?
You were mildly surprised to discover that your parents had significant debt when they died. This scenario makes you wonder what happens to debt when someone dies and whether their child is responsible for paying it. The simple answer is “no.” The remainder of their...