Holographs are a form of visual technology that use light to depict an image as though it were three-dimensional. Most people are familiar with holographs as a form of novelty art, and the idea of a holographic will may seem downright confusing. The law in Virginia allows for the creation of a holographic will, in […]

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Estate planning professionals often recommend trusts as vehicles for their clients. One particular type of trust might be suggested to those facing tough decisions about their legacy. While not every estate planner will need this type of trust, spendthrift trusts are quite useful in certain situations. Below are three examples of circumstances where you might […]

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People who have millions of dollars in property may worry about taxes after they die. Estate taxes can substantially reduce the overall value of an estate by diverting resources to federal coffers. There are numerous ways for people to plan for the possibility of estate taxes. An irrevocable trust is a powerful tool for those […]

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Family members are often surprised when disputes arise after a loved one’s will is presented in probate. Questions about sudden inheritance changes, missing relatives or unusual behavior before death can quickly create tension between beneficiaries. In Virginia, courts may invalidate a will if there is evidence that the document was created improperly or did not […]

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Picking the right estate executor is very important. This person is going to be responsible for things like inventorying your assets, contacting beneficiaries, distributing the inheritance, paying final taxes and debts, and much more. So how do you choose the right person for this important job? As you make your estate plan, here are a […]

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If someone you love has a disability, you’ve probably spent years making sure they’re well taken care of. But what happens when you’re no longer here to oversee that care? That question can feel overwhelming because it’s not just about money or legal documents. It’s about protecting their future, their dignity and the support systems […]

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Ideally, when you draft an estate plan, all of the different documents will work together seamlessly. This could include your will, your life insurance policy, any trusts that you have created, powers of attorney and much more. But in some cases, there may be a conflict. There could be different instructions in different documents. For […]

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Financial obligations can diminish the legacy of an individual after their passing. Creditors with valid claims and tax authorities can potentially demand payment from an estate before heirs and other beneficiaries receive their inheritances. Estate taxes are among the most significant obligations that could diminish a Virginia estate’s total value. Understanding when estate taxes apply […]

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Most adults know that they should have an estate plan in place. This outlines the creator’s wishes to ensure that their loved ones know how to handle their affairs. While many people believe that they only need to have a will, others may be curious about the role of trusts in their estate plan.  One […]

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As an executor in Virginia, it’s your responsibility to manage the estate, pay debts and distribute assets to the estate’s beneficiaries as outlined in the will or intestate succession laws if there’s no will. It sounds pretty straightforward on paper, but in reality, probate can be complex. Even well-intentioned executors can make mistakes that can […]

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