Posted by Chris Wendland | Jul 23, 2020 |
Most simply, probate is the process for handling someone's affairs after they die. It is a legal process to validate the deceased person's last will and testament, to appoint someone to supervise the estate, and to carry out the will's directives. If there isn't a will, then sta...
Posted by Chris Wendland | Jul 09, 2018 |
A business name can be a valuable asset. It represents a key part of your brand identity. Logos and fictitious names can also represent significant market value for a business. These assets are called trademarks (for products) and service marks (for services). Claiming the rig...
Posted by Chris Wendland | Mar 14, 2018 |
Whether you know it or not, you already have a will. Its just a question of who wrote it – you or the State? Unless youve had a will done yourself, the state legislature has already written one for you in probate law. Heres what the States will provides:
Anyone interested in your estate...
Posted by Chris Wendland | Sep 08, 2017 |
People often consider joint ownership of assets as a convenience for getting help in managing their money (e.g., having an adult child as joint owner) or maybe as a way to avoid probate of their estate. These are real benefits, but there are risks that should be considered before setting up joint...
Posted by Chris Wendland | Dec 22, 2016 |
Whether it is Christmas or another occasion, you can make financial gifts to anyone by keeping a few simple rules in mind. Note that these rules apply for gifts to other people, not to charitable gifts.
According to IRS guidelines, in 2016 you can gift up to $14,000 (annual gift tax exclusion...
Posted by Chris Wendland | Nov 30, 2016 |
When thinking about estate planning, most people think of wills, trusts and other safeguards for handling affairs after death. But what if you find yourself in a situation where you're living but not able to care for yourself? Having arrangements in place for your family when you are gone is i...