FAQs About Trusts, Trusts

What is a Crummey Trust?

When I suggest Crummey Trusts to clients, I often get a confused reaction: “Why would I want a crummy trust?” they ask. Despite the misleading name, Crummey…

Estate Planning, Questions About Estate Tax

How Much Money Can I Give Without Paying Gift Tax?

Under federal tax law, the person making a gift (the donor) is responsible for any federal gift tax due—not the recipient (donee). The gift’s recipient (the donee) does…

Estate Planning, Uncategorized

Estate Planning for the Unexpected

I read an article last week that served as a sobering reminder of why it’s crucial to plan for the unexpected.The article was about a Pennsylvania couple…

Trusts

The Power of Beneficiary Deemed Owner Trusts for Retirement Assets

If you have a large retirement asset that you intend to pass to your beneficiaries in trust, consider updating your estate plan to include Beneficiary Deemed Owner Trusts…

Estate Planning, Odds and Ends, Uncategorized

Beware the Rise of Voice Cloning Scams

Cybercriminals are using AI to mimic the voices of our family members. Learn how to protect yourself from voice-cloning scams.

Uncategorized, Wacky Wills, Wills

Even Ancient Egyptians Wrote Wills!

Last July, I stumbled upon an ancient Will while visiting the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford. As an estate planning lawyer, I was delighted.  Will of Naunakhte The Will, written…

Odds and Ends

An Empty Nest

I remember standing in the checkout line at Babies-R-Us more than 23 years ago. My first baby was just a couple of weeks old, sleeping soundly on my…

Estate Planning, Retirement and End of Life Care, Uncategorized

How to Talk with Someone who is Grieving

Attorney Rania Combs provides some helpful tips for navigating conversations with someone who is grieving after the loss of a loved one.

Incapacity

Planning For When Your Mind Fades

Studies estimate that more than 6 million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer’s. And as our population ages, Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia will afflict an increasing number of people.

Probate

Can I Disinherit my Spouse in North Carolina?

North Carolina’s laws provide a safeguard for surviving spouses. Under North Carolina law, a spouse can claim a certain share of your estate when you die, regardless of…