In Georgia’s probate process, estate assets are typically gathered, inventoried, used to pay valid debts/taxes, then distributed to heirs under court supervision. Assets that pass by beneficiary designation or survivorship usually avoid probate, while solely owned assets often require it. This article explains what happens to estate property, key steps and timelines, and common issues […]
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What Services a Full-Service Personal Law Firm Offers Its Clients
A full-service personal law firm typically provides legal support across multiple areas—most often personal injury, family law, estate planning/probate, real estate, and consumer disputes—under one roof. This breadth lets clients handle related matters with a single team, improving continuity and efficiency while reducing the need for multiple attorneys. This article explains the core services these […]
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Facing a Major Life Issue: What to Look for When Choosing an Estate Planning Attorney
Choose an estate planning attorney with at least 5 years of relevant experience and clear, written fee terms. The right lawyer can quickly assess capacity concerns and prepare documents like powers of attorney, trusts, or guardianship filings to protect a loved one. This article explains warning signs, next steps, and how to vet the attorney […]
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What is a power of attorney?
A power of attorney (POA) is a legal document that authorizes someone you choose (an “agent”) to make financial, medical, or other decisions on your behalf. It can take effect immediately or only if you become incapacitated, and it can be broad or limited to specific tasks. This article explains how POAs work, the main […]
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What is joint tenancy?
Joint tenancy is a form of co-ownership where each owner has an equal share and, upon one owner’s death, their interest automatically passes to the surviving owner(s) through the right of survivorship. It’s commonly used for homes and other assets to avoid probate, but it can also affect inheritance plans and creditor exposure. This article […]
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What is a sole proprietorship?
A sole proprietorship is a one-owner, unincorporated business where the owner and business are legally the same. You report income on your personal tax return and you’re personally liable for business debts. This article explains how sole proprietorships work, pros and cons, and when to consider another entity. Understanding Sole Proprietorships A sole proprietorship is […]
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What is a spendthrift trust?
A spendthrift trust is an estate planning trust that restricts distributions and generally prevents most creditors from reaching a beneficiary’s trust interest. A trustee controls when and how funds are paid out, helping protect inheritances from poor money management and creditor claims. This article explains how it works, key benefits, and common limitations. A spendthrift […]
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What is a special needs trust?
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, […]
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What is a codicil?
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 […]
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What is a holographic will?
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 […]
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What is estate tax?
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 […]
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What is an inheritance tax?
Inheritance tax is a state tax some beneficiaries may owe on inherited money or property, and only a handful of U.S. states currently impose it. The rate and exemption depend on where the deceased lived and your relationship to them, with spouses often exempt and more distant heirs paying more. This article explains how inheritance […]
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