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What Happened to Prince’s Estate? Lessons on Why Every Family Needs an Estate Plan
When legendary musician Prince passed away unexpectedly in 2016, the world mourned the loss of an icon. What many people do not realize, however, is that Prince left behind something
Irrevocable Life Insurance Trusts (ILITs): How They Can Protect Wealth and Reduce Estate Taxes
For families with significant assets, life insurance can be an important tool for providing financial security to loved ones. However, many people are surprised to learn that life insurance proceeds
Advanced Healthcare Directives in North Carolina: A Simple Guide
No one plans to face a medical emergency—but planning for one can make all the difference. An Advanced Healthcare Directive allows you to express your healthcare wishes clearly, ensuring that your voice is
How Do You Transfer a House After Someone Dies in North Carolina?
When a loved one dies, one of the most common questions families ask is: What happens to the house? In North Carolina, the answer depends largely on how the property was titled at
Do I Really Need a Trust If I Already Have a Will?
Many people assume that once they have a will in place, their estate plan is “done.” But in reality, a will and a trust serve very different purposes—and the best
How Often Should I Update My Will or Estate Plan?
Once you’ve created a will or trust, it’s tempting to put it in a drawer and forget about it. But life changes—and so should your estate plan. At Forbes Law Firm
Why a Trust Is Essential When You Have Minor Children
When parents think about estate planning, the conversation often begins with a will. But for families with minor children, a will alone rarely provides enough protection. A trust can be one of the
Estate Planning for Blended Families: Protecting Everyone You Love
Blended families are becoming increasingly common — and with them come unique challenges when it comes to estate planning. Whether you’re remarried with children from a previous relationship, or your
Medicaid Planning vs. Estate Planning: What’s the Difference?
When preparing for the future, many people assume that “estate planning” and “Medicaid planning” are the same thing. While both are important and can impact what happens to your assets
Estate Planning Essentials for Same-Sex Couples: Unique Considerations You Shouldn’t Overlook
While the legalization of same sex marriage has brought significant legal protections to same-sex couples, estate planning remains an essential step to ensure that your wishes are honored—especially when facing
The North Carolina Probate Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
When a loved one passes away, family members often find themselves facing the legal process of probate—a court-supervised procedure for administering the decedent’s estate. In North Carolina, probate can seem complicated,
What is an Accumulation Trust and Do I Need One?
When it comes to estate planning, not all trusts are created equal. Some are designed to pass assets quickly to beneficiaries, while others are crafted to retain and manage assets