Estate planning can require extra care and effort where one spouse is not a U.S. citizen. The same can be said for couples who live, work, or own property in the U.S. but neither is a U.S. citizen. These couples should be well-advised in preparing an estate plan to minimize the potential application of U.S.
In this powerhouse episode, hosts Erin Nicholls and Michael Clear step up to the plate with Thomas Archer, a certified financial planner and owner of the Thomas J. Archer Companies, to discuss the nuances of estate planning and business succession for high net-worth individuals, including professional athletes and business owners. Archer, not one to sit
In a previous Wiggin and Dana advisory, we highlighted a new “decanting” statute in Connecticut. As described in that advisory, effective January 1, 2025, Connecticut will specifically authorize “decanting” the assets of an otherwise irrevocable trust into a new trust with improved terms. The statute outlines precisely what kinds of trusts can and cannot be
Navigating estate planning amidst divorce can be complex. On the third episode of our speaker series, Partner Matt Smith emphasizes the need for adaptable and forward-thinking strategies to protect assets across varying state laws. Highlighting cases where outdated estate plans clash with the modern realities of marriage, divorce, and inheritance, Matt delves into crafting lifetime
Navigating the emotional and logistical complexities of administering a loved one’s estate after their death can be difficult. The additional burden of having to decide what to do with all of their stuff (also known as tangible property) highlights the critical role of effective estate planning. The clarity and directives provided by a well-structured estate
Clients often ask us how to plan for educational expenses for their children or grandchildren.
According to the College Savings Plans Network, at an inflation rate of 6%, it will cost about $276,954.00 to send a child who is currently a toddler to an in-state, public college for four years, inclusive of tuition, fees, room
Highlighted by Lyden v. Lyden (In re E. Earl Lyden Trust)
In early April, the Michigan Court of Appeals issued an opinion in the case of In re E. Earl Lyden Trust, which highlights the importance of a comprehensive review of the estate plan during the pendency of a divorce.
Background of Case
Denice
With our second episode in our speaker series, Helen Heintz dives into the increasingly common practice of drafting prenuptial agreements. Highlighting the evolution of her clientele over nearly two decades, Helen outlines the shift towards safeguarding inherited wealth in first and second marriages—primarily driven by concerned parents wanting to protect assets for their children. Helen
One of the challenges facing owners of closely held businesses is how to preserve their business legacy in the event of their death. The federal estate tax, which applies to estates exceeding $13.61 million in 2024, can pose a significant financial burden on the heirs of business owners, especially if the estate (i.e., the taxpayer)
Who should I nominate as the Executor of my Will? Who should be the Trustee of my Trust? Should the Executor and Trustee be the same person? Should I nominate my children? Can I name multiple people in these roles? What if I don’t have anyone appropriate to name?
These are questions that every estate