Common Ways to Hold Ownership or Title to Real Estate.

Common Ways to Hold Ownership or Title to Real Estate.

Joint Tenants with Rights of Survivorship Real estate jointly owned by two or more parties, the share of each passing to the other owner(s) upon the death of an owner.   Tenants in Common Real estate with shared ownership with each owner owning a share.  Upon...
The Difference Between Shall and May in Estate Planning.

The Difference Between Shall and May in Estate Planning.

Unless otherwise specifically provided in this trust or by the context in which used, I use the word shall in this trust to impose a duty, command, direct, or require, and the word may to allow or permit, but not require.  In the context of my Trustee, when I use the...
What is a QTIP Trust?

What is a QTIP Trust?

Lifetime Qualified Terminable Interest Property Trust A lifetime qualified terminable interest property (QTIP) trust is an irrevocable trust created by one spouse (who usually has more money and property) for the benefit of the beneficiary spouse. The  spouse can...
Impact of Enstrangement on Estate Planning

Impact of Enstrangement on Estate Planning

Unfortunately, rifts sometimes arise between family members that are much more serious than just temporary squabbles. The result may be estrangement, defined as “the state of being alienated or separated in feeling or affection; a state of hostility or unfriendliness”...