Should Inherited Money Be Equally Split Between Family Members

Benjamin Long Inheritance, Probate

Unequal Inheritances: A Source of Conflict Among Family Members“When you’re planning to divide your estate unequally, explain the reasons to your heirs, and remember: They …

What Is the Primary Purpose of a Credit Shelter Trust?

Benjamin Long Assets, Estate Planning Attorney, Probate

Understanding Credit Shelter Trusts for Estate PlanningThe Role of Credit Shelter Trusts in Reducing Estate Taxes“A credit shelter trust is used to help married couples …

What Happens to Debt When You Die?

Benjamin Long Debt, Estate Planning Attorney, Probate

Understanding Debt After Death and the Probate Process “Creditors typically try to collect on unpaid debt, by going after the decedent’s estate during a process …

Why Everyone Needs an Estate Plan

Benjamin Long Advanced Directive, Estate Planning, Guardians, Probate, Trusts, Wills

The Importance of Estate Planning“If you think of estate planning as something only ultra-wealthy people need to do, you’re not alone. That’s a common misconception.”Estate …

There Is a Difference Between Probate and Trust Administration

Benjamin Long Beneficiaries, Estate Planning Attorney, Probate, Trusts

Understanding the Key Differences Between Probate and Trust Administration “Probate and trust administration are not the same. There are important differences and similarities between administering …

Appeals Court Rules in Will Dispute Between Ex-wife and Brother

Benjamin Long Divorce, Estate Planning, Probate

Indiana Court of Appeals Case Highlights Importance of Updated Wills “Recently, the Indiana Court of Appeals decided the case of Trowbridge v. Estate of Trowbridge. …

Still Procrastinating About Your Estate Plan?

Benjamin Long Executor, Guardians, Healthcare, Power of Attorney, Probate, Trusts

The Importance of Estate Planning During the COVID-19 Pandemic “Without an estate plan in place, clients will be reliant on state laws and probate courts …

Five Top Reasons To Add Beneficiaries to Investment Accounts

Benjamin Long Beneficiaries, Estate Planning, Inheritance, IRA, Probate

The Importance of Adding Beneficiaries to Investment Accounts “Losing a loved one isn’t just an emotional burden—it also carries an administrative load. There are flower …

Can Mom Leave a Home to a Daughter but Not Grandchildren?

Benjamin Long Estate Planning Attorney, Probate, Trusts, Wills

Options for Passing Down Property Without Probate Court “If you want a legal plan that avoids probate court, there are two options: first, an enhanced …

Protecting a Digital Legacy

Benjamin Long Digital Assets, Estate Planning Attorney, Probate, Wills

The Importance of Protecting Your Digital Legacy “The world exists just as much online, as it does offline. Failing to recognize that when planning for …