ARTICLES

Managing a Crisis When There’s No Plan in Place

Managing a Crisis When There’s No Plan in Place

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,...
Should I Transfer My House to My Adult Children?

Should I Transfer My House to My Adult Children?

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...
Flying Solo: Life Plans for Solo Agers

Flying Solo: Life Plans for Solo Agers

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 –...
Is Probate Always Required in Massachusetts?

Is Probate Always Required in Massachusetts?

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...
How a Life Plan Can Help You Land on Your Feet in a Crisis

How a Life Plan Can Help You Land on Your Feet in a Crisis

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...
Make MultiGenerational Living a Success for Your Family

Make MultiGenerational Living a Success for Your Family

In this webinar, recorded on July 28, 2020, Nurse Attorney Cathleen Summers and Attorney Phil Summers discuss the commonly asked legal questions regarding aging parents moving in with their adult child or having an adult child move in with the aging parents. In order for you to easily access the information contained in this video,...
When Do I Need an Elder Law Attorney?

When Do I Need an Elder Law Attorney?

The legal issues facing us as we age are unique and complex.  An elder law attorney can help you and your family navigate the complicated financial, legal, and health care decisions of aging.  Not understanding these unique needs and legal implications could result in the loss of your hard-earned life savings and may get in...
Together Again: Should Aging Parents Move In with Their Adult Children?

Together Again: Should Aging Parents Move In with Their Adult Children?

You have managed to successfully raise your family and are now enjoying your independence that the empty nest affords.  You have a daily routine and are used to being in control and on your own. Sometimes, however, life throws us a curve ball.  Perhaps you have recently lost your spouse, or you have been dealing...
New Mass SJC Ruling Affects Inheritance Rights of Families

Recently, the Boston Globe reported that the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court handed down a major ruling affecting the future inheritance rights of families, and in this case specifically, blended families.  In a unanimous decision, the court ruled that spouses are entitled to one-third of their deceased spouses’ estate – effectively cancelling out the late spouse’s...

Blended Families and the Value of Revocable Trusts

You may be a little bit older and wiser, but marrying again is still full of excitement and anticipation. However, second marriages, particularly if there are children involved from your previous marriage, present their own unique issues when it comes to your estate plan. Even in the best of “step-family” situations, allowing your new spouse...

Beneficiary Designations – Proceed with Caution

Whenever we purchase a life insurance policy, open a mutual fund, or enroll in a company retirement plan, we are usually asked to designate a beneficiary. After naming these individuals, we never give it much thought again. Maybe you’ve named your spouse, one of your parents or your children. After your death, these assets are...