One of the first steps in estate planning is taking a full inventory of your assets. Only with a complete and accurate understanding of all your holdings can you create a plan that will protect your estate, help it grow, and prepare for contingencies. At Surprenant & Beneski, P.C., we have...

Why Most Americans Skip Estate Planning (and Why They Shouldn’t!)
Here at Surprenant & Beneski, P.C., we understand that estate planning can stir up a range of emotions. Some fear it tempts fate, while others see it...

Unique Estate Planning Considerations for Childless Couples
For childless couples, estate planning presents a unique set of opportunities and challenges. At Surprenant & Beneski, P.C., we understand that your estate planning needs are distinct from those of couples with children. Our firm has successfully helped numerous childless couples in Southeastern Massachusetts deal with the financial and personal aspects of...

At-a-Glance Guide to the Role of a Personal Representative
At Surprenant & Beneski, P.C., our seasoned legal team has been providing exceptional services to clients throughout Southeastern Massachusetts for many years. In our practice, we find that almost all our clients must designate a personal representative (executor) for their estate or are preparing to take on this significant role for someone...

Estate Planning for the LGBTQ+ Community
In 2015, the United States Supreme Court issued a decision in the landmark case, Obergefell v. Hodges, legalizing same-sex marriage in all 50 states. In the estate planning world, this means that LGBTQ+ couples that marry can now take advantage of all of...

Getting Married or Divorced? Estate Planning Moves to Make Now
Marriage and divorce are two significant milestones, each bringing its own set of emotions, challenges, and adjustments. While marriage is typically celebrated as an act of love and commitment and, divorce is usually accompanied by loss and regret, in both cases, the practical impact on estate planning should not be overlooked. For...

Do You Need an Estate Plan for Estates Worth Under $2 Million?
Many people assume that estate planning is only for the very wealthy, those with assets worth over $2 million. However, at Surprenant & Beneski, P.C., we firmly believe that every estate, no matter its size, deserves a well-thought-out plan. Our attorneys are dedicated to helping clients throughout Southeastern Massachusetts handle the various,...

Graduation Gift Ideas for Estate Planning-Savvy Parents
Discover unique graduation gift ideas that show your child their achievement is being taken seriously. In addition to the intrinsic monetary value of such a gift, it will help them begin to focus on the importance of being responsible in order to have a secure future. Surprenant & Beneski, P.C., an...

Spring Cleaning Tips for Organizing Your Estate Plan
Spring is a time of renewal and rejuvenation, a perfect opportunity to clear out the old and prepare for the new. This concept doesn’t just apply to your home or office but extends to all areas of your life, including your estate plan. At Surprenant & Beneski, P.C., we emphasize...

Special Needs Trust vs ABLE Account
At Surprenant & Beneski, P.C., we specialize in providing estate planning services to clients throughout Southeastern Massachusetts. Among the crucial tools in our estate planning arsenal are Special Needs Trusts (SNTs) and ABLE accounts, each designed to enhance quality of life for individuals with disabilities without compromising their eligibility for essential...