Living trusts, also called revocable trusts, are valuable estate planning tools. They allow individuals to protect and distribute assets according to their wishes. However, establishing a living trust is only one step. To ensure the effectiveness of a living trust, you must fund it properly. 1. Inventory your assets Create an inventory of all your assets. They may include real estate, bank accounts, investments, vehicles and personal belongings. By compiling a comprehensive list, you can determine which assets you want to transfer into the trust. 2. Transfer ownership of assets Once you identi ..read more

For many couples, going through a divorce represents a time of upheaval and emotional distress. Separating financial assets and other possessions can be a difficult process, and this is especially true when families have pets. Understanding pet custody in Minnesota can help you make the right decision for your beloved companions. Pets as property With a reported 54% of Minnesota households including at least one pet, companion animals are often involved when a couple divorces. In this state, pets are property in divorce proceedings, making them more like belongings than children. While this mi ..read more

Ensuring that child support arrangements reflect the financial needs of children is an important step for divorced parents in Minnesota. However, circumstances may change over time, necessitating modifications to existing child support orders. Understanding when and how to change child support is helpful for parents navigating this process. Seeking modification Parents may seek modification of child support under certain circumstances. Common reasons for seeking modification include changes in income for either parent and changes in the child’s financial needs. Changes in parenting time arrang ..read more

The juvenile justice system operates with the primary goal of rehabilitating children in trouble with the law. It recognizes that children and adolescents who engage in criminal activity have great potential to change. Adults raising such kids should explore how the law deals with problematic youth. A bit of knowledge can shed considerable light on their situation. Focus on rehabilitation One of the central aims of this parallel justice system is getting those going before a judge to see the error of their ways. This approach seeks to understand the underlying reasons for the offender’s behavi ..read more

Drug Treatment Court in Minnesota offers an alternative approach for drug-related convictions. This program focuses on substance use treatment instead of punishment. Drug Treatment Court could be a path to recovery if you struggle with substance use and face criminal charges. What is Drug Treatment Court? Drug Treatment Court is a specialized court docket for offenders dealing with substance abuse issues. The program combines judicial oversight with intensive treatment and supervision. Staff members support participants as they work to overcome addiction. What does the program include? Partici ..read more

Dealing with the passing of a loved one is a challenging experience, and the legal process of probate can add an additional layer of complexity. In Minnesota, probate is the legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate, ensuring the proper distribution of assets. Understanding which assets go through probate and finding ways to minimize the associated hassles for loved ones can ease the burden during such difficult times. Assets subject to probate In Minnesota, any real estate solely owned by the deceased may go through probate. This includes homes, land or other properties. Indiv ..read more

Divorce is difficult for everyone in the family, and due to their emotions, the couple could encounter some unique issues if they have children. Co-parenting can be difficult, but with the right strategies, parents can create a positive environment for their children. Open communication In 2022, 989,518 women stated that they got a divorce. In many cases, communication is at the heart of a divorce. However, maintaining open lines of communication is important for successful co-parenting. Parents should establish a consistent and respectful method of communication. Share important information a ..read more

After a conviction for driving under the influence in Minnesota, you might face requirements to install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle. This technology prevents your car from starting unless you provide a breath sample that shows your blood alcohol concentration below the legal limit. There are a few things to know when the judge orders an interlock device for your vehicle. How long will you need an interlock device? The duration of your interlock requirement depends upon your driving history and the specific situation. For first-time offenders, the duration is anywhere from 6 mo ..read more

Few documents hold the weight of an advance directive in your estate planning portfolio. This document defines your healthcare wishes in the event of your incapacitation. When you decide that the time is right to draft your advance directive, there are several factors to consider. 1. Appoint your healthcare proxy One key element of your advance directive is the appointment of your healthcare proxy. This person becomes your advocate, communicating to your medical care team on your behalf. Choose someone who understands your values and can handle the responsibility. A family member, friend or ev ..read more

Many people believe that eyewitness identification is a reliable means of identifying perpetrators. However, a closer look at wrongful convictions in the United States reveals a troubling reality. Eyewitness misidentifications are a leading cause of innocent individuals ending up behind bars. Despite its perceived reliability, eyewitness testimony is susceptible to factors that can contribute to misidentifications. When these misidentifications occur, it can lead to a profound miscarriage of justice. The illusion of certainty Eyewitness identifications often carry a weight of certainty in the ..read more