Posts Categorized: Trusts

Before you agree to serve as trustee for a loved one’s trust, it’s essential to understand what the role actually involves. Being a trustee means taking on serious legal and financial responsibilities – and if handled improperly, it can lead to personal liability. In this blog, we walk you through what trustees do, when it might be best to say no, and how you can get the guidance you need to fulfill the role successfully. READ MORE

This Mother’s Day, consider a gift that lasts forever. Estate planning isn’t just about assets – it’s a powerful way to continue protecting, nurturing, and guiding your loved ones long after you’re gone. Discover how to turn your love into a lasting legacy. READ MORE

Caring for aging parents and loved ones is one of the greatest challenges many families face today. Without a plan, the financial, emotional, and logistical strain can take a heavy toll. In this article, we explore how proactive estate planning in 2025 can help you protect your loved ones, reduce stress, and create a clear path forward — with dignity, compassion, and security. READ MORE

The proposed Death Tax Repeal Act of 2025 could eliminate the federal estate tax entirely, significantly impacting how wealth is passed between generations. In this blog, we explore what the repeal might mean for your family, how it could shift estate planning strategies, and why it’s more important than ever to have a flexible Life & Legacy Plan in place. READ MORE

Your financial assets are only part of the legacy you leave behind — your family values, life lessons, and personal stories are just as important, if not more. Preserving your true legacy doesn’t have to be difficult. With simple tools like video or audio recordings, you can easily share your wisdom, traditions, and heartfelt messages with future generations. And with a comprehensive Life & Legacy Plan that includes a Life and Legacy Interview, you can ensure your family treasures not only what you built, but who you are. READ MORE

Estate planning isn’t just about passing on your money—it’s about preserving your legacy. In today’s world, your stories, values, and life lessons are among the most meaningful gifts you can leave behind. By thoughtfully incorporating these into your estate plan through recorded messages, legacy letters, and intentional planning, you ensure that your family’s heritage lives on for generations. This blog explores how to weave your family values into your legal documents, so your loved ones inherit not just your wealth, but your wisdom. READ MORE

Imagine losing $700 million because of a simple mistake. That’s exactly what happened to a man who accidentally threw away the only key to his Bitcoin fortune—forever locking it away. While most of us don’t have that kind of money, the lesson is clear: if you don’t keep track of what you own and where it is, your assets could be lost for good. In this blog, we explore how creating an up-to-date asset inventory can protect your family from stress, loss, and conflict—and why it’s a critical (yet often overlooked) part of every estate plan. READ MORE

The recent passing of Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, sheds light on estate planning issues many families overlook – especially the risks of outdated documents and not planning for simultaneous deaths. While their 2005 estate plans attempted to address some key concerns, gaps still remain that could lead to confusion or unintended consequences. Their story serves as an important reminder of why it’s crucial to not only have a plan, but to have one that’s up to date, accounts for complex family dynamics, and includes clear instructions for every possible scenario. READ MORE

Creating a trust is a great way to protect your assets and loved ones, but it’s not a “set it and forget it” document. Life changes – marriage, divorce, new children, financial shifts—and so do laws that impact your estate. If your trust isn’t updated regularly, it may not work as intended, leading to probate, family disputes, or unexpected taxes. Reviewing your trust every three to five years, or after major life events, ensures it continues to protect your family and reflect your wishes. At Cheever Law, we make the process simple – schedule a trust review today and keep your plan working for you. READ MORE

Creating a will is an important step in planning for the future, but doing it alone or using an online service could lead to costly mistakes. A will is just one part of a complete estate plan that ensures your loved ones are protected and avoids court battles or unnecessary complications. Without proper planning, your assets could end up in the wrong hands, your children may not have the protection they need, and your family could face unnecessary legal and financial burdens. Before writing your will, it’s crucial to understand what you truly need to keep your family out of court and conflict. At Cheever Law, we help you create a solid estate plan that honors your wishes and secures your loved ones’ future. READ MORE

Estate planning is especially important for women, who often face unique financial challenges such as longer life expectancies, lower lifetime earnings, and career breaks for caregiving. Without a solid plan, assets may be tied up in probate, children may end up with court-appointed guardians, and financial security could be at risk. From naming legal guardians for minor children to setting up wills, trusts, and powers of attorney, estate planning ensures that your wishes are honored and your loved ones are protected. Taking the time to plan today can provide peace of mind and financial security for the future. READ MORE