Why a Durable Power of Attorney Is Essential for Every Adult
Life is full of unexpected twists and turns. While most of us prefer not to think about losing the ability to make decisions for ourselves, planning for the “what ifs” can protect both you and your loved ones. One of the most important legal tools to ensure your affairs are managed properly in such situations […]
Around the Web: Do I need to be Old and Rich to Create an Estate Plan?
One of the biggest misconceptions about estate planning is that it’s only for the wealthy or retired. The truth? If you’re over 18, you likely need at least a basic plan in place. Estate planning isn’t about how much you own. It’s about making sure the right people are empowered to act on your behalf […]
How to Plan Your Estate When You Have a Blended Family
Blended families are more common than ever. Whether through remarriage, stepchildren, or second marriages later in life, many families today look different than the traditional model. While these dynamics bring love and new opportunities, they can also create unique challenges when it comes to estate planning. At Rhodes Law Firm, we often work with clients […]
AROUND THE WEB: What the One Big Beautiful Bill Act Means for Your Estate Plan
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) is now law and while much of the spotlight is on income tax changes, one quiet shift could have a major estate planning impact: the federal gift and estate tax exemption is now permanently set at $15 million, indexed for inflation. This sounds simple enough, but it carries […]
Why Everyone Needs an Estate Plan—No Matter Their Age or Wealth
When people hear the term “estate planning,” they often think it’s only necessary for the elderly or the ultra-wealthy. But the truth is, estate planning is for everyone—regardless of age, income level, or family status. It’s not about how much you own, but about protecting what matters most: your loved ones, your wishes, and your peace […]
Is It a Good Idea to Put Your Business in Your Children’s Name Now—Before Death?
For many business owners, succession planning is a critical part of securing their legacy. It involves more than just determining who will take over operations—it’s about timing, tax strategy, and ensuring the long-term stability of the business. One important decision in this process is whether to transfer ownership to children during your lifetime or to […]
Around the Web: What We Can Learn from Celebrity Estate Planning Mistakes
Celebrity estate planning disasters may seem distant or irrelevant, but the truth is, the same mistakes can affect anyone who doesn’t have a proper plan in place. The same mistakes that caused headaches for stars like Aaron Carter, Kobe Bryant, and James Gandolfini can happen to anyone. This CNBC article takes a quick look at […]
Guardianship vs. Power of Attorney: Which One Do You Need?
Planning for the future involves making a number of important legal decisions—one of the most vital is choosing how you want your affairs handled if you become unable to make decisions on your own. Two common options are guardianship and power of attorney, but they serve different purposes and come into play under different circumstances. […]
Around the Web: Keeping Your Family in the Loop of Your Estate Plan
When most people think about estate planning, they picture paperwork and legal jargon – but at its heart, it’s really about people. It’s about making sure your loved ones are cared for, your wishes are clear, and your legacy is passed on the way you intended. That’s why it’s so important to bring family into […]
The Most Common Estate Planning Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
When it comes to estate planning, most people have good intentions. They want to make sure their loved ones are taken care of, their wishes are honored, and their assets are distributed as smoothly as possible. Unfortunately, many individuals make critical mistakes—often without realizing it—that can complicate or even derail their plans. At Rhodes Law […]