A contract is a legally enforceable agreement between 2 or more parties. It’s formed when key elements like offer, acceptance, and consideration are present, creating duties the law can enforce. This article explains the basics, common examples, and when a contract becomes binding. Understanding the Basics of Contracts A contract is simply an agreement between […]
What is a contract? Read More »
An offer is a definite proposal by an offeror that creates the power of acceptance in the offeree and can form a contract when accepted. It must show clear intent to be legally bound and include reasonably certain terms. This article explains the basics of offers, key elements, and how they differ from invitations to
A trust contest is a legal challenge to the validity of a trust or specific trust provisions, typically filed in probate court and often subject to strict filing deadlines. It commonly alleges lack of capacity, undue influence, fraud, forgery, or improper execution. This article explains what a trust contest is, who can file, common grounds
What is a trust contest? Read More »
A conservatorship is a court-ordered arrangement that appoints 1 conservator to manage the personal and/or financial affairs of an adult who can’t do so safely. It’s typically used when illness, disability, or age-related decline prevents informed decision-making and requires court oversight. This article explains how conservatorships work, who can petition, and key alternatives. A conservatorship
What is conservatorship? Read More »
A special needs trust is a trust that holds assets for a person with a disability so they can keep means-tested benefits like SSI and Medicaid. It lets funds pay for supplemental needs (e.g., therapies, education, transportation) without being counted as the beneficiary’s resources. This article explains how special needs trusts work, common funding sources,
What is a special needs trust? Read More »
A codicil is a written legal amendment to an existing will that changes, adds, or revokes specific provisions without replacing the entire document. It must generally be executed with the same formalities as a will—such as proper signing and witnessing—to be valid under state law. This article explains what a codicil is, when to use
What is a codicil? Read More »
A holographic will is a will written and signed in the testator’s own handwriting, and in many states it can be valid without witnesses. It’s often used in emergencies, but strict rules about handwriting, signature, and clear intent determine whether a court will accept it. This article explains how holographic wills work, which states recognize
What is a holographic will? Read More »
An undue influence claim alleges that someone used manipulation or pressure to override another person’s free will—often affecting a will, trust, or major financial decision. It commonly arises when a vulnerable person is isolated or dependent and a trusted individual benefits unexpectedly. This article explains the legal elements, red flags and evidence, who can file,
What is an undue influence claim? Read More »
A will contest is a legal challenge to the validity of a will, typically filed in probate court after the person dies. It usually alleges issues like lack of capacity, undue influence, fraud, improper execution, or a newer will that supersedes the old one. This article explains who can contest a will, common grounds and
What is a will contest? Read More »
Estate tax is a federal tax on the transfer of a person’s assets at death, and in 2025 it generally applies only to estates above the federal exemption (about $13.6 million per person). Some states also impose their own estate or inheritance taxes with lower thresholds. This article explains how estate tax works, what counts
What is estate tax? Read More »
