It is well-known that seniors are especially vulnerable to scam artists. The reasons are quite clear: seniors are often retired and available, having the time and interest to be responsive to a stranger’s proposition. They are also much more likely to talk on the phone or reply to an email that piques...
Author: omnizant.support
Avoiding Family Disputes Over Inheritance
Grief after a death in the family is unavoidable. Squabbling and bitterness are not. Working with a skilled and compassionate estate planning attorney can help you leave your family connected and supportive of one another when you die — arguably the most important legacy of all.
Why Family...
When Calling an Estate Planning Attorney Becomes Urgent
We’re all aware that it is better to begin projects during a period of calm rather than turmoil when decisions can be made thoughtfully and without pressure. Nonetheless, there are times when all of us find ourselves in dire need of a skilled professional; whether it's a doctor, a plumber, or even...
Common Estate Planning Questions
Exactly what is my “estate”?
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Many people associate the word “estate” with a large house or mansion (one of the word’s other meanings) but in terms of estate planning “estate” means the assets left by a person at death. These assets may include:
Real estateSecuritiesBusinesses or...
Estate Planning for Singles
Just as many people erroneously believe that estate planning is only for the elderly or the very wealthy, many fail to recognize that estate planning for singles is different than estate planning for couples. Since, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly half of the nation’s population is unmarried, this misconception...
How Will a Large Inheritance or Windfall Affect my Estate Plan?
It seems like a nice problem to have — how should I handle all that extra money? Even so, a large inheritance or another type of windfall can make for some serious and complicated decision-making. Having a knowledgeable estate planning attorney to guide you can be invaluable.
Depending on...
Planning for the Incapacity of Progressive Diseases
If you or a close relative has been diagnosed with a disease that will interfere with your ability to be independent physically and/or mentally, you are at a serious crossroads. You can proceed blindly, pretending the inevitable will not happen, or you can take control and plan for incapacity.
Dos and Don’ts for Trustees
At Surprenant & Beneski, P.C., our trust attorneys have extensive experience drafting and executing trusts for clients throughout Southeastern Massachusetts and Cape Cod. Trusts may be testamentary, revocable, or irrevocable. Their purposes are variable — e.g. avoiding probate or excessive taxation, protecting individuals with special needs, and providing for charitable contributions....
Can My Parent Who Has Dementia Sign a Legal Document?
The prevalence of dementia in our aging population makes this question extremely relevant for a great many of us. At Surprenant & Beneski, many of our clients in Southeastern Massachusetts and on Cape Cod are dealing with the complications that arise when an elderly relative with dementia has left legal steps untaken.
Estate Planning Is Not a Scary Proposition
The number one reason many people do not have estate plans is that they are frightened by the thought of discussing a future that includes their own mortality. They need not worry. Estate planning is anything but anxiety-producing. When handled by competent professionals like the estate planning attorneys of Surprenant & Beneski,...