An executor is the person legally appointed to settle a deceased person’s estate through probate. They gather assets, pay valid debts and taxes, and distribute remaining property under the will or state law. This article explains what an executor does, how they’re chosen, and key responsibilities and limits. When someone passes away, their assets, debts, […]
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What is a durable power of attorney?
A durable power of attorney is a written legal document that authorizes 1 trusted agent to handle your financial matters if you become incapacitated. It stays effective even after incapacity, allowing tasks like paying bills, managing accounts, and signing documents without a court-appointed guardian. This article explains how a DPOA works, who to choose, and […]
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What is a healthcare proxy?
A healthcare proxy is a legal document that names 1 person (and often an alternate) to make medical decisions for you if you can’t communicate. It lets your chosen agent speak with doctors and consent to or refuse treatment based on your wishes. This article explains how healthcare proxies work, who to choose, and how […]
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What is an advance directive?
An advance directive is a legal document that records your health care wishes and can name a medical decision-maker. It guides doctors and family if you’re incapacitated by illness or injury. This article explains why you need one, what it covers, and how to create or update it. An advance directive is a legal document […]
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What is a revocable living trust?
A revocable living trust is an estate planning document that lets you place assets into a trust while keeping full control and the power to change or cancel it anytime. It can help manage assets during life and streamline transfer to beneficiaries at death, often avoiding probate. This article explains how it works, key benefits, […]
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What is an irrevocable trust?
An irrevocable trust is a permanent trust that generally cannot be changed or revoked after you transfer assets into it. You give up ownership and control, and a trustee manages the property according to the trust terms for your chosen beneficiaries. This article explains how it works, common uses, and key pros and cons. Understanding […]
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What is a testamentary trust?
A testamentary trust is a trust created in a will that takes effect only after the person dies. It lets a named trustee manage and distribute assets for beneficiaries under the will’s instructions, often to protect minors or control timing. This article explains how it works, key pros and cons, and when it’s used. Understanding […]
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What is a power of attorney?
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 and the agent—and can be limited or broad, temporary or durable. This article explains how POAs work, common types, and key choices to make before signing. A power of attorney […]
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What is a testament?
A testament is a written legal document that states how your property will be distributed after death and typically names 1 executor to carry out those wishes. It’s commonly called a will or “last will and testament” and must meet state signing and witness rules to be valid. This article explains what a testament is, […]
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What is intestate succession?
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 and children first, then other close relatives based on a set order of inheritance. This article explains how intestate succession works, who inherits, and key state-by-state variations. When someone passes […]
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What is a trust?
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 benefit. This article explains how trusts work, key types, and when attorneys use them in estate planning. Understanding Trusts: A Simple Guide A trust is a legal arrangement where one […]
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What is a will?
A will (last will and testament) is a legal document that states how your property is distributed after death and can name an executor and guardians for minor children. It gives clear instructions to reduce confusion and family disputes during probate. This article explains what a will is, what it includes, and why it matters. […]
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