What Are Special Needs Trusts? A special needs trust, also known as a supplemental needs trust, is a type of trust designed to protect the assets and ensure the financial security of an individual with special needs. Special needs trusts are essential because people with disabilities often require significant medical care and assistance, which can be expensive. In this blog post, we will discuss what special needs trusts are and how they can be used to support an individual with special needs. What is a Special Needs Trust? A special needs trust is a legal arrangement where a trustee holds... View Article
What Changes Are Affecting Elder Law in 2023? Elder law is a branch of law that deals with legal issues that affect the elderly. It encompasses a wide range of legal matters such as estate planning, guardianship, long-term care planning, and government benefits. The elderly population is growing at an unprecedented rate, and this has led to a growing need for specific legal services that cater to the elderly. 1. The Population of Senior Citizens is Increasing According to the United States Census Bureau, the number of Americans aged 65 and older is expected to reach 73 million by 2030.... View Article
What Is A Healthcare Proxy? When it comes to making important healthcare decisions, not everyone may be capable of making an informed choice. If someone is seriously ill or injured, for example, he/she may be unable to express his/her wishes. In such cases, having a healthcare proxy can help ensure that the individual’s wishes are respected, and the treatment he/she receives aligns with his/her values, beliefs, and preferences. A healthcare proxy is a legal document that allows a person to designate someone else (known as a healthcare agent or surrogate) to make medical decisions on his/her behalf if he/she is... View Article
How Can I Access A Deceased Family Member’s Bank Accounts? Nearly everyone has digital assets today, and they often continue to exist even after death. If you’re managing a loved one’s estate, you may be wondering how to access and close their online accounts, from email to social media to subscriptions. Depending on the account, there are different requirements for accessing it. These include providing a certified copy of the death certificate and sometimes other documentation as well. Digital Assets Digital assets can include everything from your email and social media accounts to subscriptions, e-books and even web domain names. These... View Article
What Laws Protect A Trust From A Trustee? As a trust beneficiary, you may feel that you are at the mercy of the trustee. After all, you have no real way to force a trustee to act in your best interest or to stop them from mismanaging the trust funds. However, you may be happy to know that there are certain legal protections that can help prevent a trustee from doing things that are bad for the beneficiaries. Right To Payment The trustee of an irrevocable trust must comply with the terms of the trust document. This means distributing money... View Article
