This exciting time of year brings prom, graduation, and prepping for college. But before your 18-year-old heads off, there's something crucial to consider: their estate plan.
Why Estate Planning for Young Adults?
You might think, "Why does my financially dependent teen need an estate plan?" Here's...
As an attorney specializing in estate planning and elder law, I'm here to help you navigate the important steps to protect yourself and your loved ones in 2025. Think of this as...
Planning how to leave an inheritance for your children isn’t just about passing on money. It’s about making sure your hard-earned assets are protected, passed on efficiently, and used in a way that supports your children’s long-term well-being. Whether your goals include reducing taxes, avoiding court, or guiding your children toward responsible...
There’s no perfect time to start planning for the future—but there are key moments when legal guidance can make things smoother, safer, and less stressful. Whether you're thinking about your own care or looking out for a loved one, working with an elder law attorney early on can help you stay...
Bringing up long-term care with your parents isn’t easy. It can feel awkward, emotional, and sometimes even unnecessary—especially if your parents are still relatively independent. But waiting until something happens can leave you scrambling. When we plan ahead, we’re more likely to honor our parents’ wishes and reduce stress during already difficult...
Planning for the future means thinking about what you’ll leave behind—not just for your loved ones but also for the IRS. Estate taxes can take a significant portion of your assets if you don’t prepare. Fortunately, there are time-tested ways to reduce or even avoid estate taxes entirely. At Surprenant, Beneski &...
It can be hard to watch your parents avoid conversations about their future. You may know they need an estate plan, but every time you bring it up, the topic gets brushed aside or met with silence. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many families face this challenge. The good news...
Caring for both young children and aging parents can stretch you thin. If you’re part of this “sandwich generation,” you’re managing doctor’s appointments, school drop-offs, bills, medications—and somehow still trying to plan for the future. It’s a lot. But there are steps you can take to make things more manageable, and...
When a loved one passes away, their absence often brings emotional challenges—and, unfortunately, disagreements among family members. Inheritance decisions can stir up long-standing tensions, confusion, or feelings of unfairness. While it’s natural for emotions to run high, unresolved conflict can damage family relationships for years to come.
At Surprenant,...
When most people think about estate planning, they picture a will or a trust. But those aren’t your only options. Depending on your situation, there may be other ways to transfer your assets that are simpler, faster, and just as effective. These tools can help you avoid probate and give you more...
