When many people think about estate planning, the primary thing that comes to their mind is a will. While a will is a crucial aspect of an estate plan, it is important to keep in mind that estate planning in Wisconsin involves far more than drafting a single document. A comprehensive estate plan may include not only the will itself but also trusts, powers of attorney, a living will, health care proxy, and other legal tools. As such, working with an experienced Wisconsin estate planning attorney is essential to ensure you carefully consider each aspect of your plan. What Is a Will? A will ..read more

You have worked hard to build your family, career, and reputation. You’ve always taken charge of what happens and when, and have moved your life in the direction of your dreams. You’re proud of all you’ve accomplished. What happens to everything you’ve created when you pass away? It may be an unpleasant thought, but answering the question can be crucial. You should have a say in what happens when you pass on. At Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C., our compassionate Wisconsin estate planning attorneys understand that it can be challenging to confront the inevitable. However, having an estate ..read more

Snowmobiling might be the perfect activity if you want an adrenaline rush during the winter. But before you get started, it’s essential to know about the risks associated with this thrilling experience. Common Snowmobile Accident Injuries Some of the most common snowmobile injuries include head injuries, neck injuries, and back injuries. Head injuries are one of the most severe types of injuries that can occur in a snowmobile accident. They can range from concussions to more serious traumatic brain injuries. Neck injuries are also common in snowmobile accidents. They can range from whiplash t ..read more

While we all want to remain young and healthy forever, unfortunately, we can’t. The best thing we can do is to be prepared for the future. One of the most important steps to take is drafting a will, which should also include an advanced healthcare directive, also known as a living will. What is a Living Will? A living will is a statement that details your desires about your medical treatment if you can no longer communicate informed consent on your own behalf. An advanced healthcare directive provides specific instructions to healthcare providers if certain types of circumstances arise. For in ..read more

Divorce is a challenging and emotionally charged journey that often involves complex legal considerations. Amidst the turmoil, questions about the fate of one’s assets, including inheritances, can add an additional layer of stress and uncertainty. Did you obtain inheritance money while married and wonder what will happen to it during your divorce? While every situation is unique, Wisconsin law has clear specifications on the laws surrounding inheritance and divorce.  What Does Wisconsin Law Say About Inheritance During Divorce? In Wisconsin, inheritance money obtained during the marriage ..read more

Creating a trust is an effective way to look out for your interests both while you are alive and after you die. But a trust only works as intended if the trustee you choose properly administers it. There are lots of ways to choose a trustee, and you should consult with an estate planning attorney before making a final decision. While you are considering your options, though, look for the following qualities in your potential trustee. Age Most people create trusts to provide for their heirs after they pass. Whether that is tomorrow, 10 years in the future, or 50 years in the ..read more

Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C. is proud to announce that two of its partners, Amy Risseeuw and Avram Berk, have been selected to the 2023 Wisconsin Super Lawyers list. This prestigious recognition is awarded to only 5% of attorneys in the state, and it is a testament to Amy and Avram’s exceptional legal skills and dedication to their clients. Amy Risseeuw is a Managing Partner at Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C., and her practice focuses on personal injury and appellate law. She has a proven track record of success in helping her clients obtain compensation for their injuries, and she is kno ..read more

You’re probably already familiar with the importance of an estate plan. It can protect your legacy, help avoid probate at your passing, and prevent family conflict, among many other things. However, what many don’t realize is that estate plans aren’t usually good forever and require periodic review. When you create your estate plan, you’re creating your documents based on your current circumstances. But life happens, and situations change, prompting you to revamp your plans. Life Events that Require Estate Plan Revisions You should revisit your estate plan every so often to ensure the informat ..read more

Creating a trust is an effective way to look out for your interests both while you are alive and after you die. But a trust only works as intended if the trustee you choose properly administers it. There are lots of ways to choose a trustee, and you should consult with an estate planning attorney before making a final decision. While you are considering your options, though, look for the following qualities in your potential trustee. Age Most people create trusts to provide for their heirs after they pass. Whether that is tomorrow, 10 years in the future, or 50 years in the future, the trustee ..read more

When it comes to child custody laws in Wisconsin, things can get confusing. One of the most important distinctions is between physical and legal custody. Understanding the differences between these two types of custody can help you make informed decisions about your family’s future. In this blog post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about physical and legal custody in Wisconsin so that you can feel confident moving forward with your case. What is Physical Custody? In Wisconsin, the “physical custody” has been replaced by the term “physical placement”, and refers to where the child ..read more