Posts by gina
Elective Share Proceedings in North Carolina
Understanding Elective Share Laws In North Carolina, surviving spouses are protected from being treated unfairly under the state’s elective share laws. These laws allow a surviving spouse to “elect” to take a statutory portion of the deceased spouse’s estate if the will does not provide an adequate share. This elective share is an alternative to…
Read MoreUnderstanding the Different Types of Trusts
Trusts are essential tools in estate planning, providing flexibility, control, and tax benefits. There are two primary types of trusts based on how they are established: living trusts and testamentary trusts. A living trust is created during the grantor’s lifetime, while a testamentary trust is created but not funded until the grantor passes away. Beyond…
Read MoreTimeline of Chores for Estate Administrators
Checklist for first 90 days Administering an estate is no small task. There are many things to accomplish in a compressed amount of time and these chores often take place in the face of loss and grief. Though this article centers on things that should be accomplished in a particular order and space of time. …
Read MoreDo I Need a Trust?
One of the most common questions in estate planning is, “Do I need a trust?” The answer depends on your unique situation and goals. Everyone should have a will; however, having a trust in addition to a will depends on your individual circumstances. Trusts are more powerful than wills in terms of what they can…
Read MoreWhat is Estate Planning and Why Do I Need It?
What Is Estate Planning? Everyone has an estate, no matter how modest. Your estate includes your home, car, checking and savings accounts, retirement accounts, investments accounts, life insurance, other real estate, and personal property items. While an estate plan has traditionally been only known as a mechanism to pass down property to your loved ones,…
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