Posts Categorized: Wills

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and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, sheds light on estate planning issues many families overlook – especially the risks of outdated documents and not planning for simultaneous deaths.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

If your savings exceed FDIC insurance limits, it’s crucial to take proactive steps to protect your hard-earned money. While the FDIC covers up to $250,000 per depositor, per bank, per ownership category, you can maximize coverage by spreading funds across multiple banks, using different account types, or considering alternatives like credit unions, cash management accounts, and Treasury securities. A well-structured financial plan not only safeguards your assets but also ensures they align with your estate planning goals. Taking the time to review your banking setup today can help secure your wealth for the future. READ MORE

Love and commitment don’t always come with a marriage license, but the law still sees a big difference between married and unmarried couples. If you and your partner have built a life together – owning a home, raising kids, or sharing finances – you may assume that your partner will be taken care of if something happens to you. Unfortunately, without proper legal planning, that’s not the case. READ MORE

Talking to your family about your estate plan may feel uncomfortable, but it’s one of the most important conversations you can have. Clear communication now can prevent confusion, stress, and disputes later. By preparing ahead – choosing the right people for key roles, organizing your documents, and anticipating questions – you can make the discussion smoother and more productive. This isn’t just about legal documents; it’s about giving your loved ones clarity and peace of mind, ensuring they understand your wishes and can support one another when the time comes. READ MORE

As you plan your next family vacation, don’t forget one crucial detail – ensuring your children are protected if something unexpected happens to you. A Kids Protection Planprovides legal documentation and emergency instructions so your children are always cared for by the people you trust, rather than being placed in the custody of strangers or social services. From naming temporary guardians to ensuring medical decisions can be made on their behalf, taking these simple steps now gives you peace of mind while you travel. Think of it as travel insurance for your child’s well-being – something you hope you’ll never need but will be grateful to have in case of an emergency. READ MORE

UPDATE: On March 2, 2025, the U.S. Department of the Treasury announced that it will not enforce any penalties or fines associated with the Corporate Transparency Act (“CTA”) reporting requirements against U.S. citizens or domestic companies. Rather, it plans to propose rules that narrow the scope of the CTA to foreign reporting companies only.  READ MORE

Same-sex couples face unique challenges in estate planning, especially with the uncertainty surrounding marriage protections. While laws may change, the right estate plan ensures that your assets, healthcare decisions, and financial matters remain in the hands of those you trust. This blog explores essential legal tools—such as trusts, healthcare directives, and power of attorney—that safeguard your rights, no matter what happens. Don’t wait for uncertainty – take control of your future today with a Life & Legacy Plan that protects you and your loved ones. READ MORE

If your loved ones don’t know how to find or access your assets when you pass away, those assets could be lost forever. This happened in the case of QuadrigaCX’s owner, whose failure to document access to his cryptocurrency left $145 million unrecoverable. From digital wallets to online banking accounts, your life & legacy plan must include a complete inventory with clear instructions. Don’t leave your family in the dark – learn how to safeguard your assets and ensure they reach the right hands. Read more on our blog. READ MORE