Estate planning tools like special needs trusts provide immense relief to families facing concerns about the legal and financial security of a loved one with special needs. Specifically, this tool provides special needs individuals with long-term necessary resources...
Estate planning
Crucial estate planning tips for Maryland residents
Estate planning is the process of making arrangements for the management and disposal of your assets after you pass. To make your plan foolproof, here are some tips to keep in mind. Take inventory of all your assets You should have an account of everything you own at...
What examples of guardianship abuse can require urgent action?
Guardianship is a setup that can protect an individual from endangerment often associated with incapacity. These risks can happen due to the ward's inability to make significant health or financial decisions for themselves. A guardian could responsibly take over, but...
What is the difference between a will and a trust?
When you begin estate planning, you will run into several terms you may not be familiar with, and the two most common terms will be will and trust. Both are Maryland estate planning legal tools, but how are they different, and how can you use them? A will, generally A...
What are the two types of public guardianship in Maryland?
Public guardianship is a law-enforced arrangement that gives another person or party the responsibility to make decisions for you, including concerns about your property or personal welfare. In Maryland, this program is open to elders at least 65 years old,...
Minimizing conflict when creating an estate plan
Family dynamics can make estate planning complicated, even if you don't think that you have a lot of assets to distribute. However, there are steps that you can take to ensure that your Maryland home, a bank account or other possessions can be allocated without...
You’re trying to help. Is a special needs trust right for you?
Millions of people in America have family members with special needs, including many people in Maryland. These individuals may be vulnerable for any variety of reasons, from mental health issues to physical disabilities, among other potential issues. And no matter...
What are the benefits of revocable trusts?
Revocable trusts can help individuals manage their estate while they are alive and provide distribution directions applicable after their death. It is a widely used option, especially among individuals with health conditions that cause impairments or disabilities. A...
Elder law can help aging individuals plan for the inevitable
Elder law addresses the legal and financial concerns of aging individuals and their loved ones. It is more diverse than you might believe. It is an integral part of the estate planning process that can help you answer essential questions regarding your future and the...
Beneficiary designations are critical in estate planning
Beneficiary designations are one of the most critical considerations for Maryland residents when they begin planning their estate. However, many people don't put much thought into them or forget to do them altogether. Not having the proper beneficiary designation or...