We’ve had a few pretty big storms lately. Along with these storms have come lighting strikes, wind micro bursts and high winds. This has resulted in a number of downed trees. You may have had that ancient oak tree around …
Articles
Healthcare Issues
In your estate plan, if you are like most people, you want to make sure that you are in control while you are alive and well, that you and your loved ones are provided for when you are not so …
Downsize and Simplify
You are still living in the home in which you raised the kids. It is the family homestead. You have lots of memories in that home. The kids moved out decades ago. You do not use or need the other …
Choosing a Financial Advisor
There are a lot of financial professionals out there. According to industry estimates, there are more than 400,000 individuals who hold themselves out as financial advisors in the United States. You see life insurance agents, stock brokers, annuity salespersons, certified …
Medical Decision Making for Young Adult Children
It is the high school graduation season and now time again for my annual column for young adults. If you have any adult high school or college aged children, they are responsible for making their own medical and mental health …
Diversify With Real Estate
You have your CDs, stocks, bonds and mutual funds. Real estate is one way to diversify your investment portfolio. There are still some bargain deals out there and you have always wanted to be a landlord. Just like with any …
Separate Trusts Offer More Benefits
Last week, I attended and was one of the speakers at the three day 55th Annual Probate & Estate Planning Institute sponsored by the State Bar of Michigan and the Institute for Continuing Legal Education. This conference focuses on the …
Estate and Trust Administration Legal Fees
A loved one has passed away. You may have been named the personal representative of the estate or successor trustee of the trust. You have never had this job before and you now have to hire an attorney to administer …
What Do We Do With The Car
You have a car in your garage. Have you ever thought about what is going to happen with your car after your death? The answer is the typical legal answer, depends. If your car is in your sole name, the …
Helping or Ruining Kids
When you were young, you started with nothing. But you have worked hard all your life. Now things are different. You can afford things you never thought would be possible. You are doing well. You want the same for your …