Probate Process: A General Timeline
In general, the probate process moves quickly if the estate has minimal assets and little debt. Larger estates can take anywhere from nine months to a few years, especially with problematic family dynamics.
7 Things to Know About Living Wills
What would happen if you became seriously ill or injured and were no longer able to make your health care decisions? A living will can outline your wishes so your loved ones can make informed decisions about your care in an emergency.
Amy Stratton & Kristen Prull Moonan Honored by RI Monthly Excellence in Law
Congratulations to Moonan Stratton partners Amy Stratton and Kristen Prull Moonan (pictured here left to right) who were again honored by RI Monthly for professional excellence.
Supplemental vs. Special Needs Trusts: Any Difference?
You may have heard the terms “special” needs trust and “supplemental” needs trust and wondered what the difference is. The short answer is that there’s no difference. Here’s the long answer.
Be Aware of the Dangers of Joint Accounts
While joint accounts can be useful in certain circumstances, they can have dire consequences if not used properly. Adding a loved one to a bank account can expose you to their creditors and affect Medicaid planning.
What Is the Difference Between a Will and a Trust?
Wills and trusts are foundational estate planning tools. While each is used to distribute your hard-earned assets to your loved ones, they do so in different ways. Each also has its own distinct uses and advantages.
Senators Propose Boosting Seniors’ Social Security Benefits
In late March 2024, U.S. Sen. Bob Casey (D-PA) introduced the Boosting Benefits and COLAs for Seniors Act. The Act centers on changing the formula that the SSA uses to calculate Social Security benefits for older adults.
Partners Add New Boards to Commitment to Community
We are committed to both the profession and the communities where we work and live … from our annual involvement in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s to the RIBA Elderly Pro Bono program, the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, the Estate Planning Council of RI and more.
AI and Obituaries: Did AI Write This Death Announcement?
In some instances, AI-generated content may be a helpful tool for friends and family members struggling with the emotional process of creating an obituary, but AI also presents some peculiar and even disturbing problems.
Financial Planning: High-Net-Worth Wealth Transfer to Heirs
Owners of high-net-worth estates typically monitor and amend their estate plans regularly. They understand that the responsibility of financial stewardship will ensure continued wealth for many generations.