I have been considering getting an estate plan prepared but I do not know where to start. I do not know who to name as my trustee or executor. I am unsure of who I want to make health care decisions on my behalf. I do not know how I want my assets distributed upon my death. There is no way I can get started without this information, so I will continue to put it off. If this sounds familiar, … [Read more...] about Roadblocks in Estate Planning
Planning for Step-Children
If you have married someone and your spouse has children from a different relationship, those are your step-children. Even if you have helped raise the child from a very young age, unless you have adopted the child, they would not be considered your child for inheritance purposes. The implication of this can be significant. Here’s an example: When Harry met Sally, Sally had a newborn child, … [Read more...] about Planning for Step-Children
What is an Aging Life Care Professional?
An Aging Life Care Professional is often referred to as a geriatric care manager and is a health and human services specialist who acts as a guide and advocate for families who are caring for older loved ones or disabled adults. The goal of an Aging Life Care Specialist is to guide families to decisions and actions that ensure quality care and optimal life for those they love and to reduce the … [Read more...] about What is an Aging Life Care Professional?
Estate Planning During Uncertain Times
Oftentimes in my consultations, I hear the refrain, “I am uncertain as to what is going to happen, so I do not know what I should do.” This comment is usually in reference to either the client’s own personal situation, such as a move or a family conflict, but it may be in response to legal or geopolitical uncertainty. The question is then, how do we prepare an estate plan in times of … [Read more...] about Estate Planning During Uncertain Times
Our Promise to You During COVID-19
March 23rd, 2020 UPDATE: Our physical office is closed following Governor Hogan's order that all non-essential businesses close. We will remain closed until directed otherwise. During this time, our staff is working remotely and all appointments (with the exception of document signings) can be conducted via video chat or phone consultation. Our staff is working diligently to contact all … [Read more...] about Our Promise to You During COVID-19
In Maryland, What Age Can You…?
"In Maryland, at What Age Can You…?" by Attorney Colleen Sinclair Prosser (Audio) When are you considered an adult? I have always thought that at the age of 18 you are considered an adult, but your age and what you can do at that age, varies from state to state and from act to act. In Maryland you can: Get a driver’s license at the age of 16 When you reach 18 years old, you can sign … [Read more...] about In Maryland, What Age Can You…?
Leaving an Inheritance to Grandchildren
Leaving money to a grandchild can be more complicated than it appears at first glance. Here are some of the frequent questions that come up during my consultations, along with factors to consider. Q: Can I just name my grandchild as a beneficiary on my life insurance policy? A: You could, however this could make things more complicated when you pass away. For example, if the grandchild is … [Read more...] about Leaving an Inheritance to Grandchildren
Documents Your Child Needs to Have When They Turn 18
"Documents Your Child Needs to Have When They Turn 18" by Attorney Laura Curry When your child turns the age of eighteen, he or she is now entitled to certain privacy considerations and you will no longer have the same level of access to financial and medical information that you once had. At a minimum, you should discuss with your child that they should have two important Power of Attorney … [Read more...] about Documents Your Child Needs to Have When They Turn 18
How to Obtain a Guardianship in Maryland
"How to Obtain a Guardianship in Maryland" by Attorney Laura Curry (Audio) When a person is unable to care for their personal or financial needs because of age, disease, or disability, the court may appoint a guardian. A guardianship is a legal proceeding in which a petitioner (usually a family member or friend) asks the court to find that the person (the “alleged disabled individual”) is … [Read more...] about How to Obtain a Guardianship in Maryland
Dangers of Do-It-Yourself Estate Administration
When a loved one passes away, our lives are suddenly turned upside down. Family needs to be notified. The funeral must be planned. Bills start stacking up. The list goes on. We have various emotions, all the while knowing that as time progresses, legal matters require attention. While you may attempt to "do-it-yourself,” there are a number of pitfalls and problems that can come with serious … [Read more...] about Dangers of Do-It-Yourself Estate Administration
