A transfer-on-death deed (TODD) can allow a Minnesota homeowner to pass a home to a named beneficiary without going through probate. The owner keeps full ownership of the property; the TODD takes effect only after the owner’s death. It can be a useful estate-planning...
Estate Planning
3 risks if a person dies without an estate plan
Families often look for wills and other instructions shortly after a person dies. Unfortunately, a majority of adults in the United States do not have wills or any other estate planning documents in place. Their families may then face a much more complex probate and...
5 reasons a trust is often better than a will for new parents
Becoming a parent changes the way you see the world. You hold your child for the first time and feel something entirely new. That feeling comes with a question that will not leave you alone: if something happened to you, would your children be okay? Many Minnesota...
Avoiding probate through a revocable living trust
Some people prefer to minimize the court's involvement in their financial affairs upon their death. For them, the word "probate" carries a negative connotation. While probate serves an important legal function, it can also involve delays, administrative expenses and...
Can you create a dynasty trust in Minnesota?
Creating a long‑term estate plan that protects wealth for future generations has become a growing priority for families. With several states updating their trust and perpetuities laws in recent years, many people are asking whether dynasty trusts are an option in...
Who decides your kids’ guardian if you die?
You think about your child’s future every day, like their safety, education and who they will become. But few parents stop to consider who would guide them if you couldn’t. In Minnesota, that question carries real legal weight, and the answer depends on choices you...
Avoiding probate can protect your family’s time and money
Ensuring your family's financial security is important to you. Therefore, you created a will that will pass on your wealth when you die. But if you haven't structured your estate plan to avoid probate, they could be waiting months before receiving any of your assets....
Estate planning: 3 ways needs evolve over time
Life is full of change. From new beginnings to unexpected challenges, each period of life brings unique opportunities and responsibilities. As life grows and changes, so do the ways you protect your future and care for the people you love. One important tool for doing...
Do heirs have to accept a timeshare when the owner dies?
Going on vacation is the highlight of the year for many people. Some people take it a step beyond normal vacation planning and opt to purchase a timeshare. These are legally binding transactions in which the purchaser buys a share of a vacation property. The...
Irrevocable trusts can facilitate asset transfer after your death
Getting your estate plan in order as early as possible in your adulthood is an important task, but it’s one that can be daunting. Taking the time to carefully consider how you want each component in the plan set can help you to ensure that it accurately reflects your...

