Many people don't think of a life insurance policy as part of an estate plan, but it is. Even if you are leaving considerable assets to your family and other loved ones, many of those assets won't be available immediately after you die.
Why you need an estate plan whether you realize it or not
Many people think that only wealthy Arizonans need an "estate plan." It sounds very grand. However, if you own property and have some accounts, you have an estate, and it may be bigger than you realize.
Maintaining and reconfiguring your support system in divorce
Often when people go through a divorce, they become estranged from others in their lives. This can be especially true for people whose social relationships were intertwined with their spouse's.
Don't forget your estate plan as you divorce
Most people don't have an estate plan in place when they divorce. Too many people put off estate planning for as long as possible -- sometimes too long. However, if you do have one, it's essential to make the necessary changes to reflect your new marital status and ensure that your interests and your loved ones' needs are still protected.
How co-parents can minimize holiday stress for children
If you're facing your first holiday season as a separated or divorced parent, you're going to experience more than the usual amount of holiday stress. However, your children shouldn't. They should look back on this Christmas fondly rather than as the nightmare Christmas after their parents split up. Here are some simple ways to help make this happen for your children.
The challenges and benefits of stepparent adoption
When you married someone who already had a child, you understood the great responsibility you were accepting. Stepparenting can be challenging and rewarding, and it takes a special person to embrace a child who is not his or hers biologically.
Helping your kids stay connected to your co-parent on vacation
Many families take their first post-divorce vacations over their kids' winter break. If your children are going away with your co-parent, if you're taking them on vacation to visit family or if you're taking them to enjoy some skiing up north or other adventure, it's essential to help your kids stay connected with their other parent while they're away.
How to divorce-proof assets you leave to your children
Many people develop estate plans that are designed to ensure that the family's assets remain in the family. Divorce can take a big chunk out of a family's wealth when a spouse gets a share of an adult child's money. That's why some parents choose to leave money to their children using trust funds.
Estate planning concerns for new parents
As a new parent, you probably do everything you can to protect your child. You may research the healthiest formulas and foods and avoid anything that could cause harm. When it comes to childcare, you are weighing your options carefully and thoroughly. Leaving nothing to chance, you may already have a savings account started for your baby's college tuition.
Rebuilding your relationship with your kids in recovery
When divorced parents who've struggled with alcohol or drug dependency have been in recovery for a time, they often seek increased custody and visitation rights. It's essential to realize, however, that just because you believe that you can now be the parent your children need you to be, that doesn't mean that they're ready to let you.
What should you look for in a family law attorney?
One of the first and most important decisions you'll make in your divorce is your choice of a family law attorney. As you talk to attorneys you're considering retaining, you'll be looking for someone who understands your priorities, such as keeping a fair share of the marital assets, getting the child custody rights you're seeking and/or obtaining the support agreement you need.
