President Biden scored a win on some issues, but a loss on others when he signed the Inflation Reduction Act into law. The legislation left the estate and gift tax alone and made modest changes to the … [Read more...] about The Inflation Reduction Act
What’s Estate Planning Got to do with Interest Rates – Part I
Interest rates were at historic lows for many years. Those rates have begun to rise in recent months and may continue to do so. Practitioners need to monitor interest rates in order to advise clients … [Read more...] about What’s Estate Planning Got to do with Interest Rates – Part I
Understanding Undue Influence – Part II
Whenever a client’s Estate Plan deviates from the expected disposition, it raises questions for the slighted beneficiaries. These questions usually revolve around methods to have the plan overturned. … [Read more...] about Understanding Undue Influence – Part II
Understanding Undue Influence – Part I
Whenever a client’s Estate Plan deviates from the expected disposition, it raises questions. Most of the time, clients have consulted with a competent attorney regarding their reasons for structuring … [Read more...] about Understanding Undue Influence – Part I
How Do I Trust Thee…Part III
If a client’s Estate Plan involves a revocable trust, then the client needs to decide who will serve as trustee after the client dies. Sometimes, clients have several undesirable options if they want … [Read more...] about How Do I Trust Thee…Part III
How Do I Trust Thee…Part I
When clients undertake Estate Planning, they face the difficult decision of naming a trustee after their death. While Estate Planning documents are effective once signed, they often contain provisions … [Read more...] about How Do I Trust Thee…Part I
Understanding Tax Apportionment Clauses
Many individuals mistakenly believe that they need a large estate before concerning themselves with taxes at their death. While the Federal government does not impose taxes until an estate exceeds the … [Read more...] about Understanding Tax Apportionment Clauses
Spring Summit 2022: Celebrating Friendship in the Lone Star State
The best Estate Planners stay current on the latest trends. The American Academy of Estate Planning held its semi-annual conference providing education and learning for and inspiring excellence in its … [Read more...] about Spring Summit 2022: Celebrating Friendship in the Lone Star State
Business Succession Planning May Be Easier than You Think
Many Estate Planning attorneys shy away from business succession planning, but if you approach it like you do any other asset, it’s not so scary! First, it’s important to understand that entities … [Read more...] about Business Succession Planning May Be Easier than You Think
What an In Terrorem Clause Can Do for You
Estate Planning practitioners field questions regarding disinheriting beneficiaries regularly. The second question often relates to what happens when that beneficiary or any other tries to have the … [Read more...] about What an In Terrorem Clause Can Do for You