In any other year, the holidays are a great reason to spend quality time with our aging parents.  We get to see firsthand how they are doing, often in their own environment.  We can see if early issues need to be addressed or if there are any outward signs of decline. After all, who knows…

A Living Trust, (more formally referred to as Revocable Living Trust or Revocable Trust) holds your assets in trust for your use and benefit during your lifetime; and it gives clear direction on how those assets will be distributed upon your death. One of the prime advantages of a Living Trust is that it can…

Most of us have heard of a bad experience another family had dividing up personal property after a parent died.  Arguments and bitter feelings ensued when the adult children tried to figure out who should get Mom’s favorite pie plate, Dad’s trusty set of wrenches, or the painting over the fireplace. Neglecting to specify who-gets-what…

Sometimes a crisis occurs before an estate plan has been completed. In this webinar, Nurse Attorney Cathleen Summers discusses the options that may be available to help you or your loved one manage the crisis. Introduction 0:35 – The first step 2:45 – What can be done: Pre-Planning documents is preferred 3:05 – Power of Attorney,…

For many people, their house is their most treasured and valuable asset.  Kids have been raised there, memories of a lifetime created, and it is only natural to want to pass the family home to the next generation and avoid probate.  But is it a good idea to transfer the house to your child? The…

Nurse Attorney Cathleen Summers talks to solo agers about the importance of reaching out to others and creating a life plan so you don’t feel lonely or isolated. Introduction 1:07 – Statistics of Solo Agers 2:30 – What a Life Plan is and what it covers 5:00 – Health & health care issues 8:50 –…

Probate is a time-consuming, tedious process that often tests the nerves of many family members.  By Massachusetts statute, a probate case must be kept open for twelve months to allow creditors to file any claims against the estate and before final distributions should be made to the heirs.  The good news is that not all…

You plan for many events in life like a vacation or party; but have you created a plan that will give a road map for you, your spouse and loved ones for how you would like to live out your life? Cathleen H. Summers, RN, Esq. and Phil Summers, MBA, Esq. talk about Life Plans…