I wrote the book on Minnesota probate.
Allocating personal resources to specific beneficiaries is a key component of estate planning. People tend to focus on physical assets, including their homes and personal possessions. In our increasingly digital world, people may also have digital resources to...
For many people thinking about an estate plan, establishing arrangements for high-value assets is their main priority. The home where they live could very well be the largest asset they intend to pass on to their loved ones when they die. People can address real...
When a loved one passes away, navigating the legal process of probate can be overwhelming. In Minnesota, there are two main types of probate: formal and informal. Each has its own set of procedures, benefits and drawbacks. Understanding the key differences between...
The loss of a loved one is a difficult time, often filled with emotional turmoil and logistical challenges. Amidst the grief, the legal process of probate can add another layer of complexity. In Minnesota, if the deceased had outstanding debts, the probate process can...
When you create a will, you do so with one clear goal in mind: to articulate how you wish to have your estate distributed when you die. And most often, the court will recognize and enforce your will. However, a will can also be the subject of a costly court battle....
If one of your primary goals for your estate plan is to prevent your estate from having to go through a long probate process, you’re likely considering placing your most valuable assets in a revocable living trust. This is a good way to make things easier for your...
It can be difficult to bring up estate planning topics with your parents. You may be very interested in finding out if they’ve made a plan – or concerned if you think they haven’t – but it feels self-serving to bring up estate planning, as if you’re just curious about...
Understandably, most people postpone end-of-life planning because they don’t want to think about dying. However, you can only keep this essential aspect of estate planning out of your mind for so long; eventually, you’ll have to think about how you want to live during...
The surviving family members of someone who recently died usually know what to expect from their estate plan. Adults who have taken the time to draft the state planning paperwork often disclose their intentions to their close family members. Children, spouses and...
Ancillary probate administration is a legal process that comes into play when an individual who owns real estate or assets in multiple jurisdictions passes away. In essence, it's a supplementary legal procedure that runs parallel to the primary probate process. The...