Like other states, Georgia law specifies what happens when a resident of this state dies without leaving a will or other estate planning documents. Basically, if a person is married at the time of the death, then the spouse will receive the entire probate estate. If,...
An estate plan takes care of many needs
When planning your future, you should think about your family and business and what happens if you are unable to make decisions. Careful estate planning can help assure that these needs are met. An estate plan can assure that there are trusted agents to oversee and...
What do I need for my will to be valid?
It is not only important to have a will but it is also important that the will is valid and will accomplish the estate planner’s wishes after they are gone. As a result, it is helpful for estate planners to know what makes a valid will. What makes a will valid can...
How to store estate planning documents
Many Duluth area residents have taken the time to create their estate plan. They understand that having this in place can alleviate stress and offer peace of mind. Since these documents are so important, storing them safely is critical. Those who have created an...
Choosing the right guardian for your child
If anything were to happen to you, you’d want your child to be in the best care possible. While this scenario is never fun to think about, it’s important to plan for – just in case. But choosing the best guardian for your child is not an easy task. There are many...
Why you need to draft a solid estate plan
We all live with the daily knowledge that nothing in life is set in stone. It’s not a fun task to think about the contingencies that need consideration in the event of your death. For those without an estate plan in place, it is their families who often bear the...
How to contest a will
Many people in Georgia have had the experience of being left out of a close family member's will. Though the situation can be unpleasant both emotionally and financially, there is usually not anything that can be done about. However, there are rare cases where a...
Estate planning issues for stepparents and stepchildren
Estate planning can raise tensions for families in Georgia, especially when blended families with stepparents and stepchildren are involved. Remarriage is perhaps more common than ever before, and people planning for the future may want to consider how they can best...
Three estate-planning tips for couples without children
Couples without children in Georgia and other states do not have the same concerns as couples with children when it comes to estate planning, but they still must plan ahead. They likely want their assets to go to charities or educational or religious institutions upon...
Adding a will to a trust-based estate plan
Georgia residents who wish to have more control over how their estates will be administered may choose to use trusts. Placing assets into trusts allows estates to avoid the probate process, but these benefits are only available if trusts are properly funded. When the...
