I wrote the book on Minnesota probate.
Since the start of the year, sweeping changes have taken effect nationwide. New federal and state laws are creating ripple effects that now reach the legacies of families in Minnesota. Understanding the current landscape for estate planning is crucial to ensuring your...
Even with a valid will, you may still need probate in Minnesota. What matters is how your parent owned their assets and how much those assets were worth at the time of death and not just whether a will exists. Why a will doesn’t skip probate You must go through...
Handling the estate of a loved one can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to managing outstanding debts like credit card bills. As an executor, it is important to understand your responsibilities. This guide will help you navigate the process of dealing with...
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...