Currently there is a lot of focus on the Mega Millions that has a jackpot of $1.6 billion (and climbing) and many discussions are being had detailing what one would do if they won. Imagine the possibilities! Some of the considerations include making gifts and loans to friends and family members. Although chances of winning […]
“You Better Think” – Aretha Franklin Dies Without A Will
Documentation filed earlier this week in Oakland County probate court in Michigan by Aretha Franklin’s children indicates that she died without a will or a trust. On the forms, a box was checked signaling that “the decedent died intestate”. What does this all mean? Dying without a Last Will and Testament or a revocable living trust means that […]
Learn More About The Virginia Academy Of Elder Law Attorneys
The Virginia Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, or VAELA, is a non-profit professional organization. Its mission is to educate and empower legal representation of elderly and/or disabled clients and their families. OFP Shareholder Catherine Schott Murray currently serves as VAELA’s President. How does VAELA help protect/advocate the interests of seniors or the disabled? Catherine Schott […]
Back To School – Three Documents Every College Student Should Have
Going back to school is right around the corner…what!? How can that be? However, it is true that as August approaches families will be sending kids back to school. For those families with children starting college, this time is fraught will all sorts of emotions, checklists, logistics and large bills. It is also often a […]
How Divorce Can Impact Your Estate Plan
With the increased divorce rate in today’s society, many individuals experiencing a divorce focus on the issues directly involved in the divorce. For example, they may focus on spousal support, child support and the division of assets, but those same individuals forget that after a divorce or even during, there are additional considerations involving their […]
Caring For Pets As Part Of Your Estate Plan
Many if not all of us have had a pet during our lifetimes. But what happens to that pet if the owner becomes incapacitated or dies? Virginia (Section 64.2-726), Maryland (Section 14.5-407) and the District of Columbia (Section 19-1304.08) all have statutes that permit the creation of a trust for the care of a pet. […]