Most People Focus on Estate Plan Documents. Instead, Focus on Goals
So often, we meet with clients who want to “get a will” or “talk about trusts.” And we’re more than happy to talk about those
Ethan Huizenga
January 15, 2019
Watch Your Language: Intestate
If you choose not to decide, you still have made a choice (“Freewill” by Rush). Estate planning is based on a single choice: will you
Ethan Huizenga
January 8, 2019
Watch Your Language: Beneficiary
The beneficiary is what it sounds like: the person who receives the benefit from a trust. [Read More]
Ethan Huizenga
September 11, 2018
Watch Your Language: Grantor
The grantor is the person who creates a trust. No matter what type of trust you have, the grantor is always in charge because they set the trust’s terms. [Read More]
Ethan Huizenga
August 28, 2018
A Young Parent’s Guide to Estate Planning
For many parents, estate planning is primarily about their relationship with their children. But it’s hard to know where to even start thinking through the
Ethan Huizenga
December 17, 2015
Estate Planning Includes Creating Your Legacy
One of the most overlooked aspects of estate planning is the opportunity to create your legacy. Believe it or not, creating a legacy isn’t all about having Northwest Iowa libraries and hospitals named after you. Instead, there are some more cost-efficient, yet great ways that you can help your family remember your values and beliefs. [Read More]
Ethan Huizenga
November 24, 2015
The Biggest Job in Probate Court
There are several responsibilities that come along with being a personal representative in Northwest Iowa, and there are personal qualities which may make one person a better choice than others. For example, a good personal representative will have a sense of fairness and will be able to remain impartial when it comes to following the decedent’s instructions. [Read More]
Ethan Huizenga
November 17, 2015
FAQ: How do I Choose a Guardian for My Child?
One of the most important jobs of an estate planning attorney is to help parents choose the right guardian for their children. This is the
Ethan Huizenga
November 3, 2015
101 Death Hacks [Part Four]
When you build a house, you want to do so efficiently. Pine 2x4s are cheaper than 1½” oak floor boards, so that’s what you use to frame the house. When you’re making your estate plan, you don’t want the family farm to wind up being sold to pay a tax bill, the costs of probate, or the medical expenses of your beneficiaries. Fortunately, with a little forethought and some organization, you can avoid those kinds of problems and make a plan to pay or even avoid those costs without jeopardizing your wishes. [Read More]
Ethan Huizenga
October 22, 2015
101 Death Hacks [Part Three]
Up to this point in the 101 Death Hacks series, we’ve mainly focused on the philosophy behind your estate plan. Starting today, we’re going to get much more practical about making an estate plan by focusing on ways to communicate your wishes and how to do that efficiently and effectively. Read on to learn about what to write down in your will and trust to make them more effective and how your estate planning can help manage the emotional transition caused by your death. [Read More]
Ethan Huizenga
October 21, 2015