Now that the school year is over, it’s time for parents to shift to summer plans. This isn’t always easy, partly because everyone becomes so accustomed to having a school schedule firmly in place. Even if your child is already enjoying their summer, there are a few...
Elk River Minnesota Legal Blog
What happens to debt during probate?
Many people still have outstanding debt when they pass away. Some people pass away unexpectedly, and they may still have major debts like business loans or mortgage loans. But even someone who has addressed all of their major debts could still have credit card bills,...
Do you really need title insurance when buying a home?
Many homebuyers assume that once the transaction is done, ownership is automatically clean and undisputed. In reality, property ownership can be challenged after purchase due to hidden defects in the title. These may include missing heirs, undisclosed liens, clerical...
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...
Do divorcing Minnesota spouses split their assets 50-50?
People preparing for divorce typically have questions about the process ahead. They want to know how long divorce takes and how much it costs. They also tend to worry about the property division process. The idea of splitting all major assets evenly with a spouse can...
What if a buyer finds new damage during a final walk-through?
Multiple formal and informal inspections are standard during residential real estate transactions. Buyers and their real estate agents often conduct cursory inspections when attending open houses or private showings of the property. Mortgage lenders generally require...
When do Minnesota estates require ancillary probate proceedings?
If a person lived in Minnesota right before they died, then their estate likely needs to pass through the Minnesota probate courts. The personal representative they selected or a competent adult appointed by the courts either follows the estate plan or intestate...
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...
Adverse possession: Can your neighbor claim part of your yard?
As unbelievable as might seem, in some situations, your neighbor can legally claim ownership of a portion of your property. It often happens after years of informal use or assumptions about where the property line actually exists. It’s a legal concept known as adverse...
Virtual visitation can be beneficial in some parenting plans
Parents don’t always remain in the same area after divorce. When they don’t live close to each other, it can be difficult to handle parenting time situations. This isn’t usually a problem if they’re within a reasonable driving distance from each other, but that’s not...

