A contingent beneficiary is a backup beneficiary who inherits assets if the primary beneficiary is unable to, for example, if they predecease you or are unable to accept the inheritance. You likely need a contingent beneficiary to ensure your assets are distributed as intended, even if your primary beneficiary can't receive them.  19 Mar

What is a Contingent (or Secondary) Beneficiary?

An advance directive is a broad term for legal documents outlining your wishes for medical care if you become unable to make decisions, while a living will is a specific type of advance directive that focuses on end-of-life medical treatment.  19 Mar

What is the Difference Between an Advance Directive and a Living Will?

In estate planning, a beneficiary designation is the act of naming the person or entity who will inherit specific assets, like life insurance proceeds or retirement account balances, upon your death, bypassing the probate process.  18 Mar

Beneficiary Designations: Bypassing the Probate Process

Divorce significantly impacts estate plans, potentially invalidating provisions naming a former spouse as a beneficiary or executor, so a review and update are crucial.  13 Mar

Life Events: The Significant Impact of Divorce on Your Estate Plans

While precise global statistics on inheritance disputes are limited, studies and reports from various regions indicate a noticeable rise in inheritance disputes worldwide, often attributed to factors like complex family structures, increased wealth, and more people opting for DIY wills without legal guidance.  03 Mar

Noticeable Rise in Inheritance Disputes Worldwide

Estate Planning and Divorce: Frequently Asked Questions 29 Jan

Estate Planning and Divorce: Frequently Asked Questions

If you are involved in an estate inheritance lawsuit, you can consult a lawyer with experience in estate litigation. You can also try to resolve the dispute through mediation or arbitration.  19 Jan

Estate Inheritance Lawsuit: What are Your Options?