Ever catch yourself humming “We’re Not Gonna Take It” when thinking about getting older? You’re not alone. Many of us worry that aging means waving goodbye to our independence, dignity, and control faster than you can say “early bird special.” But here’s a plot twist for you: with the right estate plan, you can stay in the director’s chair of your own life story, even when the plot gets complicated. As an estate planning attorney in Andover, I’ve seen firsthand how a well-crafted plan can keep you calling the shots, no matter what curveballs life throws your way. Let’s break down how you can r ..read more

Attention business owners and those with entities as part of their estate plan: We’re at the halfway point of the year, which means you only have a few months left to meet the deadline to file with FinCEN under the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) or face hefty fines. This isn’t just about traditional businesses – if you’ve created entities as part of your estate planning, you may need to register too. What is the Corporate Transparency Act? The CTA is a federal law aimed at combating money laundering, tax fraud, and other financial crimes. It requires many businesses and legal entities to rep ..read more

If you’re caring for an aging parent or loved one, you know the challenges of managing their transportation needs. Whether it’s doctor appointments, errands, or social outings, ensuring they get where they need to go safely and reliably can be a constant worry. These worries are especially common if you’re noticing signs of cognitive decline or your loved one is recovering from an illness or injury. You may not be ready to have the “surrender the license” conversation, but you need reliable options for those days when driving isn’t safe. Playing taxi can be a major burden, especially if you’re ..read more

In the golden years of our lives, we often form deep bonds with those who provide care and companionship. It’s not uncommon for individuals to develop a strong connection with a caregiver, a friend, or a neighbor who goes above and beyond to support them through challenging times. If you’re considering leaving your estate to a caregiver as a gesture of gratitude and appreciation, it’s a decision that deserves careful legal planning to ensure your wishes are honored and your caregiver is protected. Leaving Your Estate to a Caregiver When You Have Legal Heirs If you have a spouse, children, or o ..read more

As you delve into the world of Medicaid and long-term care planning, you’ve probably come across the dreaded “5-year look-back rule.” This rule often leads to confusion and misconceptions, with many people believing they need to deplete their assets to a mere $2,000 within five years of needing care. But the reality is far more nuanced. Understanding Medicaid: It’s State-Specific The first crucial point to understand is that Medicaid is a state-administered program, meaning its rules and regulations vary depending on where you live. What applies to someone in another state may not be relevant ..read more

Remember that old tale about mailing yourself a copy of an invention to secure the patent? For decades, this was passed down as sage advice, even though it held no legal weight. Well-intentioned family members and friends, or even advice found online, can often lead to similar misinformation when it comes to estate planning. While their advice comes from a place of love, it can lead to costly mistakes and unintended consequences. As a North Shore will lawyer, I frequently encounter clients who have received misguided advice, leading to confusion and sometimes, heartbreak. Here are a few common ..read more

Are you planning your estate and worried about how a gambling addiction could affect your child’s inheritance? You’re not alone. Many families face this difficult situation, wanting to provide for their loved ones while ensuring their hard-earned assets are protected. Understandably, you might worry about how to address this sensitive issue without alienating your child. The good news is there are legal solutions that can balance both protection and support. Understanding the Temptation Suddenly inheriting a large sum of money can be incredibly tempting, especially for someone struggling with ..read more

Planning for your child’s future, especially when they have special needs, can feel overwhelming. It’s filled with uncertainties and a mix of emotions. However, meeting with a special needs lawyer in Andover is a crucial step in securing your child’s well-being, both now and for years to come. Understanding the Anxiety It’s natural to feel anxious when thinking about the unknowns your child might face. As a parent, you want to provide the best possible future, but it can be hard to plan without a clear picture of what that future will hold. A special needs lawyer understands these complexities ..read more

Many people put off creating an estate plan because they worry about what will happen if they change their mind later. “Will it be expensive to rewrite everything? Isn’t it better to wait until I’m sure?” While this is a valid concern, it shouldn’t deter you from taking this crucial step. Tomorrow Isn’t Guaranteed Life is unpredictable. Having an estate plan in place is crucial. It ensures that your assets are distributed according to your desires and your loved ones are taken care of, should something unexpected happen. Amendments: The Key to Keeping Your Plan Up-to-Date The great thing about ..read more

Thanks to medical research, we enjoy longer and healthier lives. Many of us wish to contribute to these advancements even after passing. Whole-body donation is a selfless way to support the study of medicine and the development of new treatments. However, it’s a highly personal decision that deserves careful consideration and communication with your loved ones. Honoring the Gift Medical schools deeply respect individuals who choose whole-body donation. Many hold annual ceremonies honoring the invaluable contributions donors have made to medical education and research. However, this is a choice ..read more