> Removing the counsel of experts rarely results in decreased costs and increased efficiency. > Each asset’s characteristics must be considered carefully when being transferred, whether it is due to divorce, planned giving or death. > Integrating your advisers allows … more

One of the primary techniques used to reduce a person’s taxable estate is making gifts during his or her life to other individuals, usually children or grandchildren, using the annual gift tax exemption ($14,000 in 2017). An individual can make … more

> Is this about wine?  Unfortunately, no. > What does it mean to decant a trust?  Trust decanting is the process of pouring the assets of one irrevocable trust (the “original trust”) into a second irrevocable trust with more desirable … more

When considering marriage or a divorce, your estate planning is likely low on the list of priorities. However, these are significant changes in a family situation that should trigger an immediate review of your existing estate planning documents or preparation … more

> Familiarity with the terms of your documents is an essential part of having an up-to-date estate plan.   > If you do not have an estate plan in place, the end of the year is an ideal time to … more

> The presence of a proper estate plan ensures efficient administration while reducing the likelihood of conflict amongst family members.   > Life insurance or other liquidity can alleviate the strain on the estate in the interest of preserving the … more

> The Revised Uniform Fiduciary Access to Digital Assets Act protects custodians to a greater extent than it empowers principals, agents or administrators.   > An “online tool” offered by a custodian will supersede the direction in a will, trust … more

> It is important to revisit your estate plan from time to time to ensure that it accurately reflects your wishes for your family and assets.   > An unfunded Trust fails to take advantage of one of the greatest … more

> Estate tax and administration laws are state-specific, so articles and general advice must be taken with a grain of salt. > A proper estate plan is based on your specific family and financial situations and tailored to achieve your … more

> The benefits of asset protection must be considered when you are building wealth, not when you need to protect it. > Transfers of property that occur specifically for the purposes of hindering, delaying or defrauding creditors are considered fraudulent. … more