At Phillips Ballenger, we believe that proper estate planning is essential in avoiding probate. Probate, a process regulated by statutory guidelines and applied through the courts, is triggered when an individual dies without a trust. This process, like other forms of litigation, can be long, arduous, and sadly, adversarial. This week, we give you an introduction…
Continue reading…Category: LGBTQ+ Planning
Back-to-School Checklist: A Reminder to Reassess your Financial Planning (Part 1)
The ever-present rush of a new school year is upon us. For many families, this is the last week of summer. This is a great time to assess your current financial situation, long-term, and short-term goals. This week, we are discussing topics that are likely addressed at some point but may not be considered until…
Continue reading…Things to Do Following the Death of a Loved One: Part I
Within the First Week: Determine whether any of decedent’s (decedent = deceased person) property needs to be safeguarded, such as a home, vehicle, vacation house, office, etc. Ensure that proper funeral/cremation arrangements have been made. Look for any letters of instruction/final wishes – our clients are typically given a “Memorial Instructions” worksheet, located in their…
Continue reading…