One of the most bittersweet aspects of being a pet owner is knowing that, in most cases, humans will outlive their animal companions by many years or even decades. But while you may frequently think about – and likely dread – the day when your furry friend’s time will...

If something sudden were to happen to you and you required medical treatment you were unable to consent to, would your loved ones know what to do? If your answer is no, you may want to devote some attention to creating a living will.  What is a living will, and what...

Many Americans don't know enough about the versatility of wills and trusts. This lack of knowledge isn't their fault, as most Americans aren't taught much about economic security, asset and property protection, guardianship, and the other legal security an estate plan...

Estate planning doesn’t have to be stressful. When you take measures to keep an estate plan up to date, you are ready for anything that might happen in the future. Ideal estate planning should occur after significant milestones in your life instead of left for when...

You’ve worked hard your whole life to provide for your family. But if you don’t have a solid grasp on the worth of your estate, you could be setting your family up for undue hardship. Only 44% of Americans have a will in place to manage their affairs when they’re...

So, you've been named executor of your loved one's will, and you've no idea what that job involves. In fact, you're not even sure what probate means. You will probably want to consult with an attorney. But before you do, take a look at this overview of the procedures...

Losing a spouse shatters your world; it doesn't have to ruin your sense of financial security as well. Basic estate planning can alleviate some of the burden and stress inherent in settling up affairs after the devastating loss of a spouse. You likely won't want to...

Probate is the legal process of defining a person's assets, debts, heirs and beneficiaries through the court system after the person has passed away. I know what you're thinking: "Doesn't a Last Will and Testament take care of that?" In a word, "no." But in some cases...

A couple looking ahead toward marriage is excited about new beginnings. As they embark on their life together, they have happy thoughts of putting down roots, starting a family and celebrating good times. Understandably, endings rarely come to mind, but newlyweds are...