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Conservatorship vs. Guardianship: What You Should Know

When a person can no longer care for themselves, physically or financially, a conservator or guardian could be necessary to ensure they get the care they need. These arrangements are very different, although they are often confused. What is a Limited Conservatorship? A conservatorship is often mandated by the court when a person can no  … Read more

Update Your Estate Plan to Address Probate Concerns

If you pass away with an outdated will, or no will at all, your estate is subject to a process called probate. When this happens, the state takes over distribution of your assets and ensures your debts are paid. It can be very expensive for your loved ones, and it will take up a great  … Read more

Who Should Have a Living Will?

Do you know what will happen to you if you are suddenly in a severe auto accident or medical emergency and unable to communicate your medical wishes? Most people have strong feelings about the care they expect if they are in a coma or other critical medical condition. While some individuals want every effort made  … Read more

Warning Signs of Elder Financial Exploitation

Unfortunately, the most vulnerable in our society are often the ones targeted for abuse, especially the elderly. There are many different types of elder abuse that occur, from physical and emotional to financial coercion and exploitation. One of the areas in which elders require assistance when they become disabled physically or cognitively is with their  … Read more

Benefits of Supporting Disabled Relatives with a Special Needs Trust

Are you looking to leave assets to a disabled relative? The wisest way to do this is through a special needs trust, which preserves the individual’s eligibility for government assistance programs like Medicaid and Supplementary Security Income (SSI). However, the benefits of a special needs trust reach beyond securing government payments. A Special Needs Trust  … Read more

When Should You Hire a Probate Attorney?

While everyone on the planet will die someday, many people are unfamiliar with what to do with the financial concerns that happen when their loved one dies. The probate process is the legal aspect of handling the assets and debts of the deceased, which can be very taxing on those left behind. While not every  … Read more

Dealing with Half-Siblings and Stepchildren in Your Will

Blended families are not uncommon in the state of Georgia. If you have left a relationship that resulted in children, you may wonder how it impacts a last will and testament. For instance, a new relationship may lead to you having more children or taking on stepchildren. This type of scenario can raise the question  … Read more

Support a Good Cause Through a Charitable Trust

Do you want to help make the world a better place? A charitable trust could be how you do that. It is one of the best ways to support a charity, because it also provides you with financial benefits. The IRS offers attractive tax benefits for creating a charitable trust if you support an IRS-approved  … Read more

Your Powers and Responsibilities as an Adult Guardian in Georgia

Many people have questions about guardianship, especially when it comes to adults. While it is often used to help protect an adult who needs managed care to ensure they live their best life, it can also seem daunting for some families. What does a guardian do and how do they do it? Guardianship Responsibilities Primary  … Read more

Coercive Elder Abuse & Will Manipulation

Elder relatives are often vulnerable to abuse due to reduced physical or mental capacity. So naturally, we want to keep them safe and honor their wishes as loved family members. But unfortunately, some individuals would stop at nothing to abuse the trust or compromised decision-making that often comes with diminished mental faculties. Recognizing that an  … Read more