Although generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) has only been available to the public for a few years, we’re beginning to see its impact everywhere. Recently, people have started turning to AI to generate legal documents like wills. It may seem like an easy, inexpensive solution, but when it comes to your legacy, the end of your life, and your family's future, an AI-generated will could...
I've witnessed families navigate the most difficult decisions of their lives. However, often the challenging circumstances families find themselves in could be easily prevented with a few documents, such as a Medical Power of Attorney. When "Interested Persons" Take Control Let me share what happened to an elderly woman I'll call Margaret. She lived independently, had no children, and was...
Losing a loved one is emotionally overwhelming and it can open the floodgates to a maze of legal questions and paperwork. If you've recently lost a spouse or are supporting someone who has, you may wonder: Do I need to open probate? What happens to retirement accounts? What about the house? Let’s walk through some of the most commonly-asked questions after a spouse or loved one passes: Q: Do I...
Many people think estate planning means writing a will and planning for after you’re gone. But what happens when you're still alive but can no longer make decisions for yourself? What if dementia clouds your judgment gradually, or a sudden event leaves you unable to communicate your wishes? These scenarios affect millions of families every year, but they're rarely part of the estate planning...
Fraud isn’t just something you read about in headlines; it’s a growing and deeply personal threat, especially for older adults and those who are socially isolated. Common scams take more than money, they take trust, peace of mind, and in many cases, years of hard-earned financial security. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Americans lost $12.5 billion to fraud in 2024, which...
Navigating the ins and outs of Medicaid planning can feel overwhelming, especially with so much information available to you. However, it is vitally important to start thinking about Medicaid Planning early and to have a realistic understanding of what it consists of and what it can achieve. Too often, people think that Medicaid Planning can achieve miracles and are disappointed by what they...
Estate planning can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you're wondering how to simplify your assets, minimize probate, or understand the purpose of a trust, the key is having clear, effective tools in place. Wills and trusts aren't just for the ultra-wealthy, they're essential for anyone who wants to protect their loved ones and ensure their wishes are honored. In this...
Recently we held a webinar on how to spot and stop elder fraud - you can watch it on YouTube Elder fraud and the financial exploitation of seniors is a growing problem. Lonely seniors have always been vulnerable to abuse, but scams are becoming more sophisticated as technology advances. With the introduction of Artificial Intelligence we are now facing challenges like seniors unknowingly...
A Power of Attorney (PoA) is a crucial legal tool that allows you to appoint someone to make decisions on your behalf for financial or medical matters. While having a trusted agent can provide peace of mind, choosing the wrong person can have serious consequences. Unfortunately, misuse of Power of Attorney authority is not uncommon and can lead to financial exploitation, family disputes, and...
After two decades as an attorney and hospice chaplain, I've seen how critical estate planning is for protecting families. My work has taught me that these plans are more than legal documents—they are acts of love that provide clarity and peace during life's most challenging transitions. Comprehensive estate planning starts with creating a will, but it also involves communicating with your...
