Gostanian Law Group Legal Blog
Don’t let creativity in your estate plan create problems
Your estate plan is a valuable tool that should align with your beliefs and reflect your wishes. And as such, a person should be able to design their plan accordingly. However, utilizing creative solutions and taking non-traditional approaches to these matters could...
Understanding elder financial abuse by a family member
It is a tragic reality that the elderly are targets for financial abuse. Victims can be isolated or lonely, and they may suffer from mental incapacity or memory loss, which can make them especially vulnerable to abusers. Unfortunately, the person abusing or exploiting...
Is it time to consider conservatorship for a loved one?
Watching a loved one's mental and physical health deteriorate can be a painful, upsetting experience. It can also create a host of concerns that you may not have experience navigating. For instance, as an adult, you might never have considered what would happen if...
5 signs probate could be painful after a parent passes away
Losing a parent can be upsetting for children of any age. Even if you only saw your parent on major holidays or had a complicated relationship, a parental loss can take a profound toll in many ways. This toll can be especially notable when it comes to probate and the...
What you leave behind when you don’t leave a will
People often think about estate planning in the context of how it can benefit themselves. However, you are not the only person affected by a plan. It can also help beneficiaries, care providers, charitable organizations and future generations. Thus, if you have people...
The importance of reviewing your beneficiary designations
When reviewing your estate plan, you will likely focus on making sure your will or trust’s provisions are current. Yet, you will also want to check the beneficiary designations on any payable on death (POD) bank accounts or life insurance policies you hold. And you...
Be aware of these financial abuse tactics targeting the elderly
People who have cognitive issues or have been isolated from their families can be incredibly vulnerable to abuse – particularly financial abuse. Being aware of how abusers attempt to manipulate or trick a victim into giving them money can be crucial in protecting...
Contesting a family business succession plan
Passing a business along from parents to children takes a great deal of thought. It also takes clear communication, a willingness to listen and accountability. There are many scenarios where the children will not feel they have gotten the best possible deal when it...
Estate planning around family friction
Every family faces challenges and conflicts between members at some point. However, some situations are more volatile and contentious than others. If this sounds like your family, the friction you experience could make it all but impossible to rely on your loved ones...
What are my responsibilities as a trustee?
Trusts can be a valuable element of a person's estate plan. An individual might establish a trust to preserve family wealth, protect assets and avoid the probate process. Considering how vital trusts can be, the person tasked with managing them must take their...
