My Mom Had a Will, But It Was Useless

Q. I always had a good relationship with my mother. We would have lots of open conversations and talk about almost everything! If she ever got sick or traveled overseas, she would remind me that she had a will, and I of course … [Read more...]

The Top 19 Weird Will Requests

The COVID-19 crisis has caused many Americans to contemplate their mortality. The pandemic has prompted people to think more about what to do if they become infected. And for many of these people, that includes thinking about … [Read more...]

Critter Corner: Is a Last Will and Testament Enough?

Dear Angel, My sister wants to save money on estate planning. She is considering Do it Yourself (DIY) forms that she saw online, or if she does go to an attorney, she said that a Will should be enough. Is that true? Thanks for … [Read more...]

Muddy Waters’ Family Still Singing the Blues: An Estate Plan Still Not Settled After 35 Years

Dan just turned 65 and is beginning to tackle the items on his bucket list. Recently, he was able to check off an item that was near the top—a trip to New Orleans to experience Mardi Gras, see the French Quarter, eat a beignet at … [Read more...]

Estate Planning for the Modern Family

Q. My family is not what many would consider "ordinary." I am divorced and have been remarried for five years. I have a 40-year-old stepdaughter, a 25-year-old daughter, and a 10-year-old grandson, all of whom reside with us. My … [Read more...]

What Happens if You Die Without a Will in Virginia, Maryland, or Washington, D.C.?

Q. I am retired and recently moved to the DC area to be closer to my daughter, her husband, and my three grandchildren. I have lived a pretty simple life, and don't have a lot. Although I am now in my early 70’s, I have never done … [Read more...]

Critter Corner: Why Are There So Many Problems With Prince’s Will Two Years After his Death?

Dear Magic,I read somewhere that Prince died two years ago, but his heirs have yet to inherit any of his 200 million dollar fortune. How can this be?Noah Money-Forthem----Dear Noah,It's true that it's been two … [Read more...]

When is a Person Too Incapacitated to Sign Legal Documents?

Q. My father, Roy, has severe arthritis and is in the early stages of Alzheimer’s. He is widowed and currently lives in a stand-alone  cottage house that my husband and I built for him in our backyard. Sometimes he seems … [Read more...]

The Estate Planning of Prince, Harper Lee, and David Bowie

In 2016 so far, we have said farewell to some of the most legendary names in music, film, literature, and television, including Prince, Harper Lee, and David Bowie — all within the first four months of the year. While nothing can … [Read more...]

Robin Williams: A Life Well-Lived and an Estate Well-Planned

Q. I read your special report on “Estate Planning Mistakes of Celebrities,” demonstrating why probate is such a nightmare and lessons that can be learned from the costly mistakes of celebrities.  I appreciate all the advice on … [Read more...]

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