A power of attorney (POA) is a legal document that grants another person authority to act on your behalf. It typically names 2 parties—the principal...
Probate is a court-supervised legal process that transfers a deceased person’s property, typically after a judge validates the will. It ensures valid debts and taxes...
Intestate succession is the legal process that distributes a deceased person’s assets under state law when there is no valid will. Most states prioritize spouses...
A trust is a legal arrangement with 3 roles: grantor, trustee, and beneficiary. The trustee holds and manages assets under written instructions for the beneficiary’s...
Foster care is a temporary arrangement where children are placed with trained caregivers when they cannot safely remain at home. Child protective services may remove...
A guardianship is a court-ordered legal arrangement where a judge appoints 1 person (a guardian) to make decisions for someone who can’t (a ward). It’s...
A domestic violence restraining order (DVRO) is a court order that protects someone from abuse or threats by a spouse, dating partner, co-parent, close relative,...
Emancipation is a legal process that grants a minor adult-like independence, ending parental control and making the minor responsible for their own decisions and obligations....
