Trusts can provide protection for your beneficiaries, help reduce taxes, and allow for your assets to be distributed according to your wishes. However, not all trusts are created equal, and choosing the right one for your estate plan requires careful consideration. In this article, we’ll explore 5 different types of trusts that we commonly draft in our office, as well as their advantages and limitations.
Advance directives are legal documents that allow individuals to outline their healthcare preferences in advance, should they become unable to communicate or make decisions for themselves. These documents are often used in situations where a person faces a serious illness or injury, leaving them incapacitated.
Gun trusts are legal entities designed to hold firearms and related assets while staying in compliance with federal and state laws. In Ohio, understanding gun trusts is crucial for responsible firearm ownership.
The federal tax code has very specific rules about how much you are allowed to give to others each year—and over the course of your lifetime—in the form of a gift. But not every gift is subject to tax. Learn how you can avoid gift tax via tuition and medical exemptions.
Most people believe that receiving a large inheritance from a loved one would be life-changing. However, one study found that about a third of Americans who had received an inheritance eventually experienced a decrease or no change in their wealth. If you're expecting to receive an inheritance, here are 3 steps you can take to make it last.
You might not want to reject your inheritance out of respect for the individual who left you their assets in a will or trust. On the other hand, an inheritance may create unforeseen logistical or financial problems. Problems that you are unable—or unwilling—to shoulder.
When someone passes away, the executor of their estate plays a pivotal role in managing and distributing assets as outlined in the will. Ideally, the executor maintains open lines of communication with beneficiaries to confirm that the estate is handled fairly and efficiently.
Failing to file probate can lead to significant legal complications and risks, especially for heirs, creditors, executors and estate administrators. Additionally, it may give rise to litigation, which can be time-consuming and costly.
Whether this is your first home or you're upgrading or downsizing, purchasing a home is a big event in life. When major life events occur, it is important to update many different entities and documents.
As a fiduciary, a trustee must act in the best interest of the trust's beneficiaries. Trustees are prohibited from self-dealing. They cannot use the trust's assets for their own benefit as opposed to the beneficiaries' benefit. Self-dealing can be much harder to identify in practice and is often done accidently. There are some safe harbor rules that can you can follow to prevent yourself from getting sued.
