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Steps to Finding the Best Probate Attorney

When a loved one passes away, there are countless memories and emotions to process. Aside from coping with the loss of a friend or family member, there is also the stress of probate to deal with. Probate is a court-supervised process of gathering and amassing the deceased’s estate assets, paying any debts and taxes, and distributing the final estate to heirs. It is essential to seek the help of a qualified New York probate attorney to ensure that this process is completed properly.

There are many different legal issues that can arise during the probate process, such as a dispute over the validity of the will or claims by creditors. It is essential to find a lawyer with experience in probate litigation and can clearly explain the legal issues at hand. In addition, the law firm should be able to provide you with a reasonable estimate of fees.

If you are not sure where to start looking for a probate lawyer, consider asking your friends and family members who they recommend. In most cases, they will be more than happy to share their experiences with you and will be able to point you in the right direction. If you are looking for a skilled Probate Attorney, visit https://www.chicagoprobateattorneys.net/ for guidance and Free Consultation!

Another great place to look is in your local newspaper. Many probate attorneys will place advertisements in the newspapers, often near obituaries and notices to creditors. These ads are a good way to find a probate attorney that is located in your area and has experience dealing with issues similar to yours.

Aside from finding a probate attorney, you should also take the time to read their bio and check their credentials. This will give you a better idea of their level of expertise and whether they are a good fit for your case. You should also ask the attorney about their past experience with probate cases.

Hiring a Probate Attorney

Once you have found the best probate attorney, it is important to hire them as early in the process as possible. This will allow them to help you avoid unnecessary delays and make the process as efficient as possible. In addition, it will ensure that all necessary steps are taken to comply with the law and protect your interests.

Probate is a long and complicated process, and a skilled attorney can help you minimize the impact on your family. A Chicago probate lawyer can assist you in a variety of areas, including drafting and filing petitions, evaluating the date of death value, collecting life insurance proceeds, assisting with property sales, negotiating with creditors, defending against creditor claims in the estate, completing tax elections and filings, and distributing the final estate to a beneficiary. A good attorney will be able to handle these duties and ensure that the final estate is distributed in accordance with the deceased’s wishes. They will also be able to help you avoid disputes over the will or other estate matters. They will also be able to help reduce the amount of taxes you will need to pay.

How to File for Miami Child Support Enforcement

When a divorce or separation occurs, the noncustodial parent must pay money to the custodial parent to support the children. This is known as child support and is enforced by the courts in Florida.

The amount of child support can vary depending on a number of factors. In general, child support payments are based on the combined incomes of the parents and the number of children involved. However, the court may deviate from the Guidelines if the circumstances of a case warrant it.

If your child’s support order has not been paid by the other parent, you can file for Miami Child Support enforcement to collect the past-due amounts and insure that future payments are made on time. The Florida Department of Revenue will assist you in this process.

Getting help with child support is a crucial step in ensuring that your child is cared for properly after a divorce. The State Attorney’s Office in Miami can provide you with this assistance and help you obtain a child support order that will meet your child’s needs.

How to Get Help With Florida Child Support

Every state has laws that govern the financial responsibilities of each parent in a custody or divorce case. These laws can be complicated and it’s important to seek professional legal assistance.

Ensuring that your child support is paid on time can be a challenge for you and your ex-spouse. If you are unable to make your payments, you should contact a local Miami child support attorney as soon as possible to help you.

In most cases, you will need to go to a judge for approval of your support amount. During your hearing, you will provide evidence of your income and the financial needs of your children. The judge will determine the amount of support based on the Florida Child Support Guidelines, which are set by the State.

How to Get Your Income Imputations Right

One way to ensure that your child support payment is correct is to hire an experienced Miami divorce and family law attorney who will be able to impute your income to the other parent. This is a process that can be difficult and requires thorough knowledge of Florida law.

If your income is inaccurate, the other parent can sue you for retroactive support. Back-owed support can be obtained dating back up to 24 months from when you stopped residing in the same home with your child.

Even if you are currently unemployed and you are seeking retroactive child support, you will need to show that you have been voluntarily unemployed or that you have been making a good faith effort to find employment.

Using a lawyer for retroactive child support is an excellent way to ensure that your support payments are accurate. The first step in this process is to contact your lawyer and provide them with the information they need to calculate your income.

Once you have the appropriate documents, your lawyer will file a motion for child support redetermination. This is a special request that the other parent will need to sign before he or she can be provided with your new income figure.

A Child Support Lawyer Can Help You Get the Best Results in Your Child Support Case

A Child Support lawyer can help you get the best result possible in your child support case. Whether you are seeking to establish or modify a child support order, or need help with enforcement of your current order, a Phoenix Arizona attorney can provide the guidance and assistance you need. Visit https://www.phoenixfamilylawyers.net/child-support/ for more details and guidance.

The Family Law Guideline Process:

There are many factors involved in determining child support, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to determining child custody and child support. Rather, parents and attorneys must work together to create an appropriate child support order that is both fair and reasonable to both parties.

The child support guidelines are set up to ensure that the court has a consistent, accurate way of calculating child support obligations. However, the family law judge has the authority to deviate from the guidelines when it is necessary to avoid an inappropriate or unjust result in a particular case.

During a divorce or separation, the financial needs of children can often be overlooked. Getting the right amount of child support can help reduce stress and ensure that children are not only able to live comfortably, but that they receive age-appropriate medical care, child care services, and education when they need it.

Child Support Obligation Calculations:

The Basic Child Support Obligation (BCSO) is based on the combined adjusted gross income of both parents. The BCSO is capped for parents with six or more children, and it can be increased by up to 15% if the child support order is modified on substantial and legitimate grounds.

Modification of a Child Support Order:

If you believe there has been a significant change in your circumstances since the initial child support order was made, it is important to reach out to an experienced family law lawyer today. They can help you submit a Petition for Modification of your child support order to the court.

How Long Does Child Support Last?

Child support usually continues until a child reaches the age of 19 or graduates from high school, whichever comes first. The court sets a termination date in the child support order.

When Can I File a Petition to Modify My Child Support?

You may be able to request a modification of your child support order if there has been a significant change in your or your ex’s income or your child’s needs. This can be a result of a job loss, an increase in income, or an illness.

A modification of your child support order can be a difficult and emotional experience. The best course of action is to seek the help of a Phoenix family lawyer as soon as you can.

Is Marital Misconduct Considered in Child Support Hearings?

A child support attorney can determine if the obligor has committed marital misconduct, such as lying in a divorce proceeding, that could impact his or her ability to pay child support.

Having the assistance of a knowledgeable Phoenix Arizona child support lawyer can make the process easier and less stressful for you, your spouse, and your child.

How do I file for a divorce?

Divorce Lawyer

When your marriage dissolves, it can be a difficult and emotionally harrowing time for you and your family. A divorce lawyer can help you to navigate this challenging and tumultuous period. They are highly skilled and knowledgeable in family law, divorce settlement, custody legislation, and property management issues.

Finding the right family law lawyer is essential to winning your case, whether you are filing for an uncontested or contested divorce. There are many things you should consider before hiring a lawyer, such as their experience and expertise. You may also want to look for a lawyer who has worked in your specific jurisdiction, or who has served on a bar association committee dealing with family law.

Your divorce lawyer should be able to provide you with a clear strategy or “game plan” for your case. Depending on the circumstances, this plan might include working with your spouse’s attorney or taking a more aggressive approach.

Expertise and Experience

When choosing the # divorce lawyer, you should be looking for someone with years of experience handling complex matters such as child custody and division of complicated assets. This is important because divorce laws are often very complicated and vary widely from state to state. It is also a good idea to find an attorney who has extensive courtroom experience and is familiar with the judges in your local area.

You should also ask about their approach to divorce cases and how they would work with you to settle your case. This is a critical factor for your peace of mind and will ensure that you are comfortable with the lawyer you choose.

In New York, you must fill out several forms to start the process. These include a Summons with Notice or a Summons and Verified Complaint, a Declaration of Assets and Income, and a Request for Order for Support (if you are seeking child support). Once you have filed your papers, they can be delivered to your spouse. You will need to pay a filing fee and obtain an index number from the county clerk’s office.

If you are seeking a contested divorce, there is a higher chance that you will have to go to court. This is due to the fact that there will be disputes over issues such as spousal support, child support, property distribution, and child custody.

The best divorce attorney for your case will be able to make the process as simple and straightforward as possible. This will save you a lot of money and stress and ensure that your case is as fair as possible.

A divorce attorney should also be able to give you an estimate of how long your case will take and how much it will cost. They should also be able to explain all of your rights and options, so you know what to expect.

More varieties of family legalities

The purpose of family law is to protect and maintain the rights and well-being of families. These rights include a right to life, a safe environment for children, and to prevent harmful behavior. In Canada, the legal recognition of same-sex relationships has been expanded. This represents a long-awaited sea change in the heterosexual norm.

Family law provides a framework to help parents and children reach a peaceful and secure relationship. It also helps to preserve the institution of marriage. However, some individuals use the system to perpetuate abuse and violence. Despite these issues, the law still provides some protection to children and ensures their safety. For more information about family law and legalities visit https://www.thedivorcelawyersdallas.com/family-lawyer/.

Families can be divided into different-sized units, such as a single parent, a couple with two children, or a family of four. A person’s family status is determined by a range of factors, including whether they have children, whether their spouse has custody of them, and whether they receive child support. While the courts have some discretion in determining this, they are not allowed to deny or limit the rights of the people involved.

For example, the Family Law Reform Act of 1997 imposed an obligation on the courts to actively inquire about the risk of family violence. It also widened the definition of family violence and clarified the priority to keeping a child safe over maintaining a relationship with both parents.

As a result of the Family Law Reform Act, the Family Court has developed a set of procedures to address these matters. One of these procedures is the use of a single registry. Another procedure is the separation of the parties in the same jurisdiction, which can be used to resolve issues regarding the parents and their children.

There are a variety of ways to define income. Many expenses are required to produce income, such as payroll taxes, a rent or mortgage payment, a bonus, or a commission. Some of these expenses can be deducted from the gross receipts. But a variety of other expenses are not necessarily considered “ordinary and necessary” to meet the income needs of a household. To prove that an expense is “ordinary and necessary” for family law purposes, a forensic accountant may be needed.

If an individual is subject to a court proceeding for child support, there are a number of ways to minimize their expenses. For instance, a person who has a salaried job can reduce their taxes by choosing a lower tax bracket. Additionally, there are incentives to reduce the amount of assets available for property division. Similarly, a person who has a sole proprietorship can reduce their tax liability by reducing the number of expenses they incur.

An individual’s net worth can be increased by a complex trust. This is a way to free up liquid assets. Non-liquid assets can be used to fund capital improvements. They can also be used to provide security for a replacement spouse.

Family laws have evolved to include same-sex relationships. Lesbians and gays have been selectively denied freedom of speech, assembly, and military service.

Factors That Determine Who Gets Physical Custody of the Child

There are many factors that will determine who will have physical custody of your child. The parents’ roles and responsibilities are scrutinized by the court to determine who is the primary caregiver. The court will look for evidence that the living parent would not benefit the child. For instance, a mother would not be able to spend time with her child on weekends if she was living with her ex-husband. Likewise, a father may be unable to spend time with his child if he lives in a different state. However, the courts will still take into account the child’s current environment and circumstances.

The court considers the relationship between the child and the mother when deciding who should have custody. Mothers tend to bond closer with their young children than fathers. The child’s mother will typically feed him or her from birth through toddlerhood. Generally, mothers take time off work and are more likely to spend the day with the child than fathers. Mothers are also more likely to spend time with their child, which makes them more likely to be the primary caregiver.

Sometimes, parents will leave their children with the other parent to get custody of them. In other cases, a parent may take custody of the children without the other parent’s consent, intending to get custody later. As time passes, this is becoming more difficult to gain custody of the children, so a parent should consider this factor before making the final decision. However, it is important to understand that the stability of the children is a major factor in determining custody. Contact a qualified child custody attorney serving Houston to help you navigate the process.

Child custody is a legal process that allows the parent with physical custody to make important decisions regarding their child’s welfare. The decision to keep the child in one place or split it between the two parents will determine who will get the physical custody of the child. The judge will also consider whether the child is safe and healthy. As the child grows older, the court will decide which parent should have primary residence. If both parents live in the same state, the child will go with the parent with legal custody.

Child custody laws vary by state and individual circumstances. It is crucial to contact an attorney to find out the most favorable child custody arrangement for your case. The court can make many different arrangements in custody cases, including joint custody and physical/legal custody. If you cannot agree on custody, the child will live with one parent for the time being. The child will spend time with each parent, but the decision will ultimately depend on who is best able to provide for the child.

The other option is to apply to the court for a temporary custody order. This is not permanent and is usually temporary, pending a final custody order. This type of order will be finalized after a trial and custody petition is filed in Family Court. It is best to file a custody petition in case your ex-husband has already made a temporary custody order. The court will also grant visitation rights to the non-custodial parent.

Divorcing parents should work to agree on the custody and visitation of their children. If both parents are capable of agreeing, this will help ensure that they are doing what is best for the children. If the parents cannot agree on custody arrangements, they may have to turn to the courts, which can sometimes result in less than desirable arrangements. In such cases, the child’s best interests will be taken into account. If the parents cannot reach an agreement, they may have to accept the custody arrangement imposed by the courts.

Even when a temporary order is made, it is important to remember that these are only temporary. The final order may have permanent implications. If the court decides that a parent should be separated, he or she must follow the custody and support order until the child reaches the age of 18.

In Houston, a mother can seek custody of her child if the legal father has signed an Acknowledgment of Paternity or received an Order of Filiation from the court. A father must also be listed on the child’s birth certificate. In addition, a child’s birth mother’s spouse is presumed the child’s parent if they have a written agreement that states who should have custody. This is a complicated process that requires a skilled attorney.

Navigate the Complicated Adoption Process With the Right Adoption Attorney

The process of adoption is rewarding, but it is also complicated, especially if you aren’t a lawyer. San Diego Lawyers can help you navigate this process by explaining the law and how it affects you. With many years of experience, they have handled all kinds of adoptions. This makes them the right choice for anyone considering an adoption. Read on to find out more about this exciting process. The process is complicated, but you can rest assured that San Diego lawyers will do everything in their power to make the experience as positive as possible.

A voluntary adoption is the most common way for a child to be adopted, but it is not the only way. Most adoptions are the result of the consent of both biological parents. Involvement between adoptive parents and biological parents is also important. If the biological parents do not consent to the adoption, they will fight for custody of their child. In most cases, the natural parents sign away their parental rights. Therefore, the adoption process involves the cooperation of both adoptive parents.

While the child is in the custody of the adoptive parents, the birth parents must still agree to the adoption. The birth parents must give their consent, either by granting permission to the adoptive parents or removing them through a court order. The consent of the birth parents is required if the child is under age 14, but it is not necessary if the child is over 14.

While nuclear families have traditionally been the norm, more children are now living with a non-biological parent. These individuals can be considered psychological parents and seek to establish full legal parentage through adoption. In these cases, a lawyer can help navigate the legal process and ensure that the rights of both parents are protected. The firm also represents clients in other family structures, such as nuclear families with LGBTQ parents. If you are interested in learning more about the adoption process, San Diego Lawyers proudly serves clients in all of San Diego.

While there are many legal aspects of adoption, a lawyer can help you navigate the process with ease. The court will have to determine if you are suitable for the adoption and will undergo 27 hours of training. There are many forms and documents to be filed and the courts will also need to decide whether you are a suitable adoptive parent. Once your application is approved, your San Diego family law attorney will assist you through the entire process and ensure that your child receives the best possible home.

There are several different types of adoption laws. San Diego has a special law relating to stalking and was one of the first states to pass a stalking law. You can also adopt a child if you’re not married. The process is similar to that of child adoption, but adult adoption has fewer hurdles and is easier. You should find an attorney who is experienced in adoption to help you navigate the process. And make sure your attorney is familiar with the state’s adoption laws.

There are two types of adoption: open and closed. An open adoption is one where both parties can contact each other without the consent of the birth parents. The open adoption agreement specifies what contact will be allowed between siblings. It is usually in the form of a contract, but it is not legally binding. In San Diego, the Adoption and Safe Families Act of 1997 has made it easier to adopt children from foster care. The Act promotes the permanence and safety of foster children.

Seasoned San Diego adoption attorneys can help you navigate the adoption process by explaining state laws and protecting your rights. In certain cases, a practicing adoption and family law attorney can convince a judge to reverse an adoption decree. They can also explain what kinds of adoption are available to you. The attorney can help you decide which one is right for you. There are many benefits to hiring a family law and adoption attorney. This lawyer can help you get the adoption you need.

In addition to the benefits of hiring a family law attorney, you should also hire a lawyer specializing in adoption and family issues. Your best bet is to hire a San Diego family lawyer who has a history of success in such cases. Their team of attorneys will fight for your rights in the most effective way. With decades of experience, they can make the difference in the outcome of your case. You’ll be able to rest easy knowing that you’re getting the best possible result for your unique situation.

Why It Is Important to Hire a Drug Crime Defense Attorney?

Having a drug crime defense attorney on your side will make a big difference in how your case is handled. He or she can give you information about your case, explain the charges, and help you put together a successful defense plan. You can also minimize the consequences of your conviction, such as jail time, probation, and fines.

Drug crimes are common throughout the United States. These crimes include possession, distribution, manufacturing, and trafficking of drugs. In many cases, these crimes involve millions of dollars, physical harm, and death.

The law against drug distribution in Alexandria is strict, and many people face serious charges. In order to successfully fight your drug charges, it is important to have an Alexandria drug crime defense attorney on your side. These attorneys know the law, and can help you to prepare for court, introduce reasonable doubt, and avoid a conviction. In addition, he or she can argue for defenses like entrapment and suppression of evidence collected in violation of your Fifth Amendment rights.

These lawyers are also very knowledgeable about the law in Alexandria and will do everything they can to help you avoid a conviction. If you have been accused of drug possession, drug trafficking, or drug manufacturing, you can hire an Alexandria drug crime defense attorney to help you navigate the court system and protect your legal rights.

Drug crimes in Alexandria, Virginia, and across the country are increasing in number. The War on Drugs has had a significant impact on the criminal justice system, and has led to an exponential increase in drug crimes. Drugs can include marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, and prescription drugs. Depending on the type of drug involved, penalties can include probation, jail time, fines, and community service.

If you are charged with a drug crime in Alexandria, Virginia, or anywhere in the United States, it is crucial to have an attorney on your side. These lawyers have a strong track record of success, and can help you avoid conviction. They can also help you develop a defense strategy, negotiate a plea deal, and put you in the best possible position for trial. They have experience with federal crimes, as well.

In addition to drug crimes, Alexandria drug defense attorneys also represent clients who have been charged with DUI, fraud, and other types of criminal offenses. Their legal experience can make the difference between a less serious charge and a jail sentence. A good lawyer can minimize your charges, reduce your sentence, or get them dismissed entirely. If you are in need of legal help, do not hesitate to contact an Alexandria drug crime attorney for a free consultation.

A good Alexandria drug crime defense attorney will be able to explain your case in detail, and provide you with legal advice. This can be very important, as drug crimes are extremely common. When faced with criminal charges, it is important to contact an Alexandria drug lawyer as soon as possible.

Learn Whether You are Eligible to Receive Spousal Support

Alimony is a form of maintenance paid to a former spouse. It is usually paid monthly or weekly, but in some cases, it can be paid in lump sums. Alimony payments can be permanent or temporary, and are subject to change. These payments are usually tax-deductible for the paying spouse. They are also reportable as income to the recipient spouse. The payments can be terminated if one or both parties remarry or cohabitate with another adult.

The length of the marriage is a factor in determining whether or not alimony is deserved. The longer the marriage, the stronger the case for alimony. Other criteria for eligibility include the other party’s financial dependence on the other spouse. For example, the recipient spouse must have worked for the other spouse’s business or helped pay for his or her education. The recipient spouse must also have failed to undermine the financial stability of the other party.

The courts also consider future earning potential of each spouse. For instance, a spouse with three young children will likely be awarded alimony because the child rearing is more important than working. However, this does not mean that a high-earning spouse will automatically end up with a large sum of money. An experienced family law attorney serving Miami will act as a strong advocate for his client.

The rules regarding alimony differ by state. In some states, a nonworking spouse can request alimony from a higher-earning ex-partner. Each state also has its own statutes that determine who qualifies for the support. So, it’s important to understand the rules for alimony in your state.

If the parties cannot agree on alimony, it will likely be decided during divorce litigation. A judge will make the final decision on the amount and terms of the settlement. During the divorce proceedings, the court will determine whether or not alimony is deserved and whether or not the amount is unfair. The award may be temporary or permanent, depending on the circumstances of the case.

Alimony payments can also be modified if the paying spouse suffers a loss of income or retirement. In these cases, a judge may “impute” a person’s income based on the circumstances. For instance, if a high-earning spouse makes $200,000 a year as a lawyer, the judge may order alimony payments that are proportionate to her capacity to earn the same amount.

If the ex-spouse does not comply with the alimony award, the recipient can request a court hearing to enforce the agreement. The court will then set up a hearing to determine the reason for non-compliance with the order. In such a case, a “show cause” action will be filed. The judge will determine the reason why the ex-spouse is not following the agreement. Once the judge rules on the modification, the ex-spouse will have to pay the money.

The purpose of alimony is to minimize the unfair economic effects of divorce. It provides income for the lower-wage earning spouse. It also provides time for the ex-spouse to build up job skills. This support can be helpful in cases where both partners have children. In addition, it is often used by higher-income families to maintain a standard of living that the other spouse might have been unable to afford.

Alimony is often paid in after-tax dollars. This means that the recipient does not have to pay taxes on the money. However, tax treatment of alimony differs from state to state. In Miami, for example, alimony is deductible for the paying spouse, while it is taxable for the recipient. However, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act has changed the tax treatment of alimony so that it is not taxable after December 31, 2018.

The courts must consider a number of factors in order to determine alimony, including the length of the marriage, the property division, and the earning capacity of each spouse. The court may increase alimony in certain circumstances, such as if one party is at fault for the divorce or has a lower standard of living. In addition, the judge may consider any marital misconduct that may have occurred during the marriage. The judge can also consider the needs of the former spouse.

A former spouse can terminate alimony if they cohabitate with another person. If this occurs, the paying spouse must prove that the relationship is ongoing and regular, and that the other person is also a member of the same sex. Cohabitation can also occur if the other spouse has a romantic or sexual relationship with the recipient.

Reasons Why Estate Planning is Important

Estate planning is the process of naming agents to make decisions on your behalf in the event of your death or incapacity. It also allows you to designate your health care directives and long-term care wishes. By using an estate plan, you can prevent yourself and your family from making unthinkable decisions when you are not able to make them.

In addition to naming executors, you can also set up your own will to set up how your property will be divided and how minor children will be taken care of. However, estate planning is more than just a will; it deals with your legacy and can help your family save money on taxes, fees, and court costs. It is important to consult an estate planning professional to learn more about your specific needs.

Estate planning is an ongoing process. It’s important to update your plan as your family or circumstances change and the laws regarding estate planning change. By using an estate planning attorney, you can rest assured that your family and loved ones are in good hands. A qualified estate planning attorney will take your family’s best interests into account and ensure that your wishes are carried out.

Estate planning is one of the most thoughtful things you can do for your family. It ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes and minimizes estate taxes. It also ensures that future medical and financial decisions will be made as per your wishes. You don’t have to be rich or famous to benefit from estate planning.

Estate planning involves a detailed itemized list of all of your assets and the value of each of them. This will help you identify your heirs and beneficiaries. In addition, it will also help you calculate the total value of your estate. The process will also address issues related to Medicaid planning, estate taxes, and asset protection. So, it’s important to have a detailed estate plan to avoid problems down the line. The process can be both simple and complex, but the end result is always beneficial.

In addition to setting up beneficiaries, estate planning also allows you to minimize estate and gift taxes. You might not think that you have enough money to justify estate planning, but your assets may surprise you. Be sure to get an outside appraisal of your possessions, so your heirs can be certain of their values. If you have any questions, you can consult an attorney to help you choose the right structure for your needs.

In addition to naming beneficiaries, you should also consider appointing an estate administrator. This person will be in charge of overseeing the distribution of your assets, including those owned in your name. The executor will manage the sale of your property, handle probate court proceedings, and notify the banks and credit card companies that you’ve passed away. This person will also keep your assets from being stolen.

A trust can also protect your assets even after you die. Assets left in a trust can stay in the trust until your beneficiaries reach the age of inheritance. A trust can help you avoid probate and provide more privacy to your family members. This can also reduce your family’s burden of dealing with a complex estate plan. It’s best to consult an attorney with experience in trusts to avoid any potential problems in the future. When deciding who will take your assets, make sure you select someone who’s trustworthy.

You should also consider taxes when making your estate plan. The goal is to minimize the amount of your estate that is lost to taxes. A good estate plan can prevent probate and allow your assets to pass on without paying hefty taxes. Currently, the federal estate tax exemption is $11,580,000. If you pass away before that, you may have to sell your assets in order to cover estate taxes.

Probate is the legal process whereby your will is validated through the courts. This process is expensive and very public. The courts also have the power to make decisions that go against your wishes. This can make it difficult for the beneficiaries of your estate. If you die before this time, you can avoid probate by writing a will.