Parents who are aware they should create a will may worry about approaching the task. They feel frightened over hashing out complex, legal details in a formal setting. The good news is they can jettison these fears. A proper estate planner has compassion and knows how...
Estate Planning
Estate planning can protect your heirs and your assets
Every state has laws governing probate or the legal process that validates and distributes a will's contents. For example, Arkansas law dictates that all estates with a total value exceeding $100,000, outstanding creditor debts, or active will contests, must go...
What to look for in a power of attorney
Picking a power of attorney is a critical step in estate planning. This essential designee makes medical decisions on your behalf when you cannot. Consider whom you would like to serve in this role. Then, hire an estate planning professional to make your selection...
Did you wait too long to make an estate plan?
Many people spend their working years without thinking about estate planning. The need to do so may seem far in the future, or the subject of death is uncomfortable for them to address. However, years go by quickly. If you are someone who waited to plan, you may...
How do you choose a guardian for your child?
Few things are more rewarding than raising a child. After all, you have an opportunity to mold the young one in your family into a unique and competent adult. Still, because of a terminal illness or catastrophic injury, you may die before your child turns 18. While it...
What is a fiduciary duty in estate planning?
As you plan your estate in Arkansas, it is important to understand the concept of fiduciary duty. Someone with fiduciary duty has the authority to manage your financial or other interests and agrees to put those interests before his or her own. Get the facts about...
Is a will enough? Three other estate planning documents to consider
Whether you are just starting a family or have already retired, if you are like many Americans, you may have avoided planning your estate. According to a 2021 survey by Caring.com, two out of every three U.S. adults do not have a will. You may assume that you do not...
Tips for choosing the executor of your estate
Being able to choose the executor of your estate can be one of the most important benefits of the planning process. The responsibilities of the role may be somewhat complex. It is best to avoid having your estate go through probate and leaving who will serve as...
Avoid common estate planning mistakes
Estate planning can be complex but it doesn't have to be more difficult than necessary. If you are planning your estate, avoid these common mistakes that can keep your legal and financial goals out of reach: Failing to update the plan: Priorities and life...