Life insurance is a powerful tool to ensure that your loved ones are taken care of financially after you’re gone. But as life evolves, so do our relationships and priorities. A common question we encounter is: “Can I change the beneficiaries on my life insurance whenever I want?” Our Olney will and trust attorneys dive …
The probate process can seem daunting, especially when navigating the myriad of assets left behind by a loved one. While many assets pass through probate, some bypass this legal process altogether. Understanding this distinction is crucial for beneficiaries and personal representatives. Let’s explore these exclusions together. Key Assets Excluded from Probate Why It Matters to …
Estate planning is a crucial topic, but it’s often cloaked in sensitivity, especially when older loved ones feel that their finances are private matters. Knowing how to navigate this conversation respectfully and effectively is crucial. Why It Matters Having a will and comprehensive estate plan ensures that your loved one’s wishes are carried out, minimizing …
When there’s a significant age difference between your children, estate planning can require extra attention to detail. You’re not only considering their immediate needs but also forecasting the challenges each child may face at different life stages. As your Olney estate planning lawyer, I’m here to highlight the nuances you should consider in such situations. …
When navigating the intricacies of Medicaid, particularly when planning for long-term care, you’ll encounter terms that might be unfamiliar yet profoundly influential. One such term is “community spouse.” As your local Olney elder law attorney, I’m here to demystify this concept and its implications for Medicaid eligibility and benefits. What is a ‘Community Spouse’? A …
October 1, 2023 is the effective date of much of the legislation passed by the Maryland legislature during its legislative session in the Spring. There are a number of new laws that go into effect October 1, 2023 that may affect your estate plan. Our Olney estate planning attorneys explain in more detail below. Intestacy …
Olney Estate Planning Attorney Shares New Laws That May Impact Your Estate Planning Read More »
If you’ve ever questioned the difference between guardianships and powers of attorney for seniors, you’re not alone. As an Olney elder law attorney, I often field questions about these two distinct yet related legal mechanisms. Here’s an explanation to help you understand the nuances of each. Guardianships Explained Guardianships typically come into play when an …
For many retirees, dividing time between two beloved locations is the dream. Often known as “snowbirds,” these individuals enjoy northern US states in the summer before flocking to warmer climates come winter. While this lifestyle has many advantages, it can significantly impact the distribution of your assets when you pass away. For instance, Maryland state …
As an elder lawyer serving the Olney community, I often counsel families grappling with the challenges of caring for a loved one with dementia. A common and particularly distressing symptom of dementia is sundowning, characterized by increased confusion, agitation, and restlessness during the late afternoon and evening. Understanding what happens during sundowning and when to …
Understanding Sundowning and When to Seek Support: Guidance from an Olney Elder Lawyer Read More »
One common misconception when it comes to estate planning is the belief that one must have significant assets to establish a comprehensive plan. As an estate planning lawyer in Olney, I’m here to tell you that this simply isn’t the case. In fact, life insurance can play a crucial role in your estate planning, even …
