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A proper estate plan can help prevent the pains of probate. Probate, the process of appropriately distributing an individual's assets following their death, can be a lengthy, expensive, painful, and public process that many people would like to avoid. And some can. Staying out of Arizona probate court may not be possible for everyone -...

Securing your legacy with a legal will protects your wishes and family. The holiday season in Arizona is a time of joy, family gatherings, and reflection. While many use this time to exchange gifts and create lasting memories, it's also an ideal opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations that extend beyond the festivities. One important...

In estate planning, a guardianship creates a legal relationship where a guardian takes responsibility for someone known as the ward. That someone can be a child or a disabled person. Courts appoint legal guardians who gain the authority to manage a ward's personal or financial affairs. Wards, be they minors or incapacitated individuals, need someone...

Recent research highlights a troubling trend among older Americans: a declining number are writing wills. This decline in estate planning has far-reaching consequences that extend beyond the individual. It creates significant challenges for their surviving loved ones. The attorneys at The Law Firm of Brown & Jensen discuss the downward trend in estate planning among...

An experienced estate lawyer can help you prepare for the future. When you are creating an estate plan, there are a lot of decisions to be made about the protection and distribution of your assets. Wills and trusts are common components of estate plans, and both are ways to transfer assets to your heirs. But...

Five years after her death, Franklin's estate is yet to be settled. Throughout her life, the Queen of Soul spelled out exactly what she wanted - R-E-S-P-E-C-T, for one. So, it was a surprise to many people that when Aretha Franklin died, her final wishes were not clear. Franklin died in 2018 without a last...

Put a plan in place to cover future long-term care. While it's not the most pleasant topic to think about, the reality is that most of us will require long-term care eventually, and for many, that will come in a skilled nursing facility. Unfortunately, the cost of nursing home care is very high, and Medicaid...

Always consult an estate planning attorney before changing a trust. Planning for the future is a part of life. We work hard to accumulate assets and provide for our loved ones. One effective estate planning tool that can help ensure the smooth transition of assets is a living trust. This is a powerful way to...

Estate planning can be a helpful tool for families planning for the future. And increasingly, many families that have children with special needs have focused on creating long-term financial plans for their entire family. But as with any estate plan, there are a lot of options to consider. That's why it's essential to identify your specific...

Make sure your legacy is fully protected When you're creating or revising an estate plan, you need to think holistically and take a comprehensive approach. Small details can have a big impact on your family's future. Here are six key steps to ensure that you have an estate plan that accurately reflects your priorities and...