LEGAL UPDATES

Use the proper tools to fix a broken trust

An irrevocable trust has long been a key component of many estate plans. But what if it no longer serves your purposes? Is it too late to change it? Depending on applicable state law,…

Naming a minor as beneficiary of a life insurance policy or retirement plan can lead to unintended outcomes

A common estate planning mistake is to designate a minor as beneficiary — or contingent beneficiary — of a life insurance policy or retirement plan. While making your young child the beneficiary of such…

If charitable giving is part of your estate plan, consider a donor-advised fund

Do you make sizable gifts to charitable causes? If you’re fortunate enough to afford it, you can realize personal rewards from your generosity and may be able to claim a deduction on your tax…

Recent U.S. Supreme Court Decision Concerning Arbitration

On May 21, 2018, the United States Supreme Court decided a significant case involving arbitration clauses in employment agreements. The court ruled that employees may be compelled to arbitrate wage-and-hour claims on an individual…

Your original will: Does your family know where to locate it?

In a world that’s increasingly paperless, you’re likely becoming accustomed to conducting a variety of transactions digitally. But when it comes to your last will and testament, only an original, signed document will do….

Provide for your spouse, then your kids, with a QTIP trust

If you want to preserve as much wealth as possible for your children, but you leave property to your spouse outright, there’s no guarantee your objective will be met. This may be a concern…

Four estate planning techniques for blended families

Today, it’s not unusual for a family to include children from prior marriages. These “blended” families can create estate planning complications that may lead to challenges in the courts after your death. Fortunately, you…

What estate planning strategies are available for non-U.S. citizens?

Non-U.S. citizens in the United States face some estate planning challenges when it comes to taxes. If you’re a U.S. resident, but not a citizen, the IRS treats you similarly to a U.S. citizen,…

Settlement Reached in Class Action Lawsuit Regarding Tip Pooling

In March 2018, the Hennepin County District Court approved a settlement in a class action lawsuit against Surly Brewing Company in Minneapolis. The settlement is noteworthy not only because of its size – $2.5…

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