This entry is for initial inquiries into or foundational understanding of Supplemental Needs and Special Needs Trusts. There are some basic differences between the two and they are often confused. If you think you may qualify to establish one of these…
1. How do we make sure each of us is an equally and legally recognized parent? Both of you must be able to establish parentage according to the laws of Minnesota. If you don’t establish parentage properly, you put yourself…
The decision to “age in place” is not likely one you or your caretakers can help you make in crisis very well. Like most big decisions regarding your health and well-being, your housing needs as you age need to be…
I’ve written a number of times on the value of keeping track of your digital assets for estate planning purposes. I recently read an article, however, that reminded me how important it is to do the same for other…
I read an interesting article recently in Family Law Quarterly, (Vol. 48, No. 1, Spring 2014) entitled “Collaborative Divorce: The Unexpectedly Underwhelming Advance of a Promising Solution in Marriage Dissolution” written by Luke Salava. A Minnesota attorney, Mr. Stuart Webb,…
I recently attended a program which brought together hospital administrators, attorneys, and social workers to discuss issues and confusion that come up with Health Care Directives (HCD). The problems commonly arise when the health care agent (the person granted the…
If you’re worried about being able to stay at home as you age for as long as possible, or if you know your parents wish to stay at home, and it’s getting harder to feel confident about their safety and…
Power of Attorney Health Care Directive Last Will and Testament In Minnesota, these are what I refer to as “foundational estate planning documents” – and, everyone should have them. Why? If you want a stress-free retirement and aging process, plan…
Minnesota law requires anyone who is legally obligated to provide “care and support” to either a child or a spouse to do so, or face criminal punishment. If someone “knowingly omits and fails” to provide “care and support,” depending on…
The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), which was signed into law under the Clinton administration allows up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for workers who are recovering from a serious illness, and for family caregivers to care for…