A lot of people want to include charitable giving in their estate plan, but hold back because they think it’s complicated. They picture trusts, tax shelters, maybe even a team of advisors—and decide it’s easier…
Business Succession: When Retirement Isn’t the Trigger
A lot of business owners think of succession planning as something you do when you’re ready to retire—something you’ll get around to eventually. But in reality, the need to plan often shows up before you’re…
Pets in Probate: Who Cares for Fluffy?
For many families, pets are more than just animals - they are companions, routines, and emotional anchors. But legally? But legally, pets are still considered property. That distinction matters, especially when it comes to estate…
Divorced but Still Named as Beneficiary? Why the Supreme Court’s Ruling in Sveen v. Melin Doesn’t Change Georgia Law—But Still Matters
1. What Happened in Sveen v. Melin? In Sveen v. Melin, the U.S. Supreme Court looked at a Minnesota law that automatically removes an ex-spouse as the beneficiary of a life insurance policy once a…
What Happens If Two Wills Turn Up?
When Conflicting Documents Complicate Everything It’s a situation we’ve seen more than once:After someone dies, the family finds two wills. Both are signed. Both look legitimate. And they say different things. Now what? Georgia Law…
Your Parents Named You Executor—But You Live Across the Country
What You Need to Know Before Taking the Job It’s a call many people dread:“Your mom passed away. You’re the executor.” And then it hits you—you live 1,000 miles away. Can You Still Serve? Yes.…
The Risk of Naming a Minor as Your Beneficiary
What Happens When a Child Inherits Before They’re 18? It’s a common move: listing your child as the beneficiary on your life insurance or bank accounts. But what most people don’t realize is that minors…
Is It Too Late to Plan If You’re Already in Assisted Living?
Why Estate Planning Still Matters—Even If You’re No Longer Living at Home It’s a common question from adult children:“My mom just moved into assisted living. Is it too late to update her will?” In many…
What Happens If a Witness to Your Will Dies?
And Why Georgia’s Self-Proving Wills Make a Difference It’s been 15 years since you signed your will. Everything looks in order—until you learn that one of the witnesses has passed away. Does that mean your…
You’re Named Executor—Now What?
What Happens the Moment Someone Dies and You’re in Charge Being named executor of someone’s estate is an honor—but it’s also a big responsibility. And most people have no idea what to do when that…