What to Do When Someone Is Contesting a Will

October 16, 2025
Brian Hicks
Estate Planning, Our Blog, Probate & Trust Administration, Wills & Trusts

Dealing with the emotional aftermath of a loved one's passing away is always a challenge. But matters can become even more stressful if someone challenges the deceased person’s will. Challenging a will, also known as a will contest or contesting a...

Finding a Reputable Funeral Home

October 9, 2025
Brian Hicks
Elder Law, Estate Planning, Our Blog, Probate & Trust Administration, Senior Living

Funeral homes are trusted with handling a person’s remains with care and sensitivity, coordinating burial or cremation, and sometimes hosting wakes and memorial services. In the United States, there are currently over 24,000 funeral homes. While funeral homes should operate ethically, that...

Medical Decision-Making for Individuals With Chronic Disease

October 2, 2025
Brian Hicks
Estate Planning, Our Blog, Special Needs Planning

Legal documents such as advance health care directives, health care powers of attorney, and HIPAA authorizations allow people to maintain control over their care, even if they cannot advocate for themselves.

Consider These Medical Expenses When Planning for Retirement

September 25, 2025
Brian Hicks
Elder Law, Estate Planning, Medicaid Planning, Our Blog, Senior Living

Many retirees pride themselves on years of careful financial planning, yet one major area often catches them off guard: the cost of health care. According to a recent Wall Street Journal article, even those who’ve saved diligently can be blindsided...

How Charitable Remainder Trusts Fit into an Estate Plan

September 18, 2025
Brian Hicks
Estate Planning, Our Blog, Wills & Trusts

Would you be more inclined to give to charity if you could turn your assets into a steady income, avoid an immediate tax bill, and leave a legacy for a worthy cause? A charitable remainder trust (CRT) can do exactly...

One Common Estate Tax Error That Could Cost You

September 11, 2025
Brian Hicks
Estate Planning, Our Blog, Probate & Trust Administration

In estate planning, there is a surprisingly common misstep that can have costly consequences for some families. A recent Wall Street Journal article highlighted this error: the failure to file an estate tax return upon the death of the first...

The Effects of Family Caregiving on Older Adults

September 4, 2025
Brian Hicks
Elder Law, Estate Planning, Our Blog, Senior Living

Most people tend to marry someone who is within a few years of their own age. As a result, many married couples share the same cultural touchstones, social memories, and general values. Certain phases of life often coincide as they...

Last Wills and Testaments: More Frequently Asked Questions

August 28, 2025
Brian Hicks
Estate Planning, Our Blog, Probate & Trust Administration

August is National Make a Will month — a fantastic opportunity to learn more about this essential type of estate planning tool. Wills form the foundation of a solid estate plan. Creating one can be a first step toward protecting...

Key Documents for Parents of Children With Special Needs

August 21, 2025
Brian Hicks
Estate Planning, Our Blog, Special Needs Planning, Wills & Trusts

One in five children in the United States have special needs, per the Annie E. Casey Foundation. These include children with physical, developmental, and behavioral disabilities. Beyond day-to-day responsibilities such as taking a child to medical appointments or providing direct...

Can I Give My Kids $19,000 a Year and Apply for Medicaid?

August 14, 2025
Brian Hicks
Elder Law, Estate Planning, Medicaid Planning, Our Blog, Wills & Trusts

If you have money to give your children, you certainly can, but you should be aware that you may face consequences should you apply for Medicaid long-term care coverage within five years after each gift. In 2025, you can give up...