As we progress into the new year, it becomes increasingly evident that while setting resolutions is a commendable start, the true essence of productivity lies in actively reorganizing and clarifying our goals and actions. Whether you’re cleaning the attic or reviewing your estate plan, early 2024 is an auspicious time to begin....
Does Your Estate Plan Match Your Life Stage?
Estate planning is not a one-time event. It's an ongoing process that evolves as your life does. At Surprenant & Beneski, P.C., we understand that because life is dynamic, your estate plan must be updated to reflect your present life stage and your current goals.
Changes occur in many...
Caregiver’s Legal Checklist: Essential Documents Every Caregiver Should Have on Hand
At Surprenant & Beneski, P.C., our estate planning clients are often devoted caregivers who seek guidance about how best to make certain all the documents they need are well-crafted and readily at hand. This blog offers a checklist for caregivers who want to ensure that they have everything in place if...
Managing a Decedent’s Digital Legacy: How to Handle Digital Assets
Managing digital assets has emerged as a critical part of estate planning. At Surprenant & Beneski, our estate planning attorneys have many years of experience managing and preserving digital assets for clients throughout Southeastern Massachusetts, Cape Cod & the Islands. Contact us now to discuss how we can help manage...
Estate Planning Checklist for the New Year
Review your existing estate planning documents. If you already have an estate plan, review it to make sure it is still up to date and reflects your current wishes. This includes your will, trust, and any other estate planning documents.
Make necessary updates to your estate planning documents. If...
Understanding Competency in Massachusetts Estate Planning
Because estate planning decisions and documents are weighty and often life-altering, the competence of those making these decisions and signing these documents is central to the process. In other words, the law requires that the person signing a will, trust, durable power of attorney, or other estate planning document has the...
Major Changes Have Come to Massachusetts Estate Tax Limit in 2023
Changes in Massachusetts estate tax laws are noteworthy for anyone in the state who has an existing estate plan or is working with a qualified estate planning attorney to create one. For those who are personal representatives or beneficiaries of individuals who died after October 4, 2023, these changes demand more immediate...
Family Heirlooms: Discussing Personal Property Distribution During the Holidays
As families gather during the holidays, it’s a season filled not just with joy, but also an opportunity for meaningful discussions about the future of cherished family heirlooms. These conversations, while delicate, are crucial for ensuring that treasured items are passed down according to your wishes. In this context, we'll explore how...
Can I Plan for Nursing Home Expenses in My Estate Plan?
As estate planning attorneys in Massachusetts, we understand that planning for the future involves addressing some challenging questions. One such question is how to manage the potentially high costs of nursing home care. It's a concern for many as they age, and rightfully so. In this blog, we'll delve into effective...
Start the New Year by Securing Your Future — Take the First Steps to Creating a Strong Estate Plan
As the New Year begins, it's time to think about securing your future and that of your loved ones. Creating an estate plan can be a vital step in ensuring that your wishes are honored and your assets are distributed according to your wishes. If you live in Southeastern Massachusetts, the accomplished...