I’m a Survivor . . . and Now I Have My Own Trust?

Many married couples share almost everything, including finances. This may be reflected in their estate plan by using one joint living trust instead of two separate trusts. Separate trusts can provide greater flexibility, but a joint trust can be structured so that...
Testamentary Trusts:  The Best of Both Worlds

Testamentary Trusts: The Best of Both Worlds

You have several different options when it comes to creating the right estate plan. Some people believe that a revocable living trust is the best way to go, while others think that a last will and testament (commonly known as a will) is best under certain...
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”...