Undue influence occurs when someone in a trusted position works to manipulate a vulnerable for the purpose of inheriting most or all that person’s assets upon his or her death. The most common perpetrators of undue influence include stepparents, children of elderly...
Estate Planning
Creating a last will and testament will help divide your assets
Having a last will and testament is essential when you reside in Indiana if you have assets you'd like to distribute upon your death. It communicates your precise wishes and determines how your assets should be divided when you pass away. Without this legal document,...
What to consider when choosing an executor for your estate
Naming beneficiaries is a critical aspect of creating your estate plan. It is also necessary to name someone to settle your estate's outstanding financial obligations, schedule your will's probate hearing and distribute your assets according to your wishes. These are...
Why does probate take so long?
The Indiana probate court system can be expensive and time consuming. Most people who have looked into estate planning have read about strategies for avoiding probate. But why does probate take so long and what factors make the process take even longer than usual?...
4 key times to update your estate plan
Your life in Indiana has probably changed significantly over the years. New family members have arrived while others left, your income fluctuated, and you acquired new assets. When major life changes happen, it’s important to alter your estate plan. Here are four key...
Can estate plans be private in Indiana?
Creating your estate plan can be a huge emotional undertaking, regardless of your actual health. It’s understandable for Indiana residents to want to keep some privacy during this time or avoid discussing it with anyone. While you might have the option to keep your...
What is a living trust and how does it work?
At some point, Indiana residents should begin planning their estate. It helps to plan for the future and ensures that your assets and property go to who you wish to inherit it. You might want to include a living trust as one of your documents. What is a living trust?...
What are the basics of estate planning in Indiana?
Estate planning is something that all Indiana residents will have to do at some point or another. Creating an estate plan before it's necessary can relieve a lot of stress and pressure from the person and their family. Beyond that, having an estate plan created early...
Estate planning and asset preservation in Indiana
Everything you own in Indiana, including your personal possessions, furniture, life insurance, home, car, investments, savings accounts and other assets, are at risk of high taxation, poor distribution and harsh creditors without proper planning. Therefore, it is...
How to account for grandchildren within an estate plan
It's not uncommon for parents to pass down assets such as an Indiana home, a bank account or a car to their children. If you have grandchildren, it's a good idea to consider how you might want to transfer assets to them as well. Fortunately, there are many strategies...