A special needs trust (sometimes called a supplemental needs trust) preserves eligibility by owning assets for the beneficiary and spending them only in ways that supplement—rather than replace—government support. At the heart of every special needs trust is the trustee, charged with administering the trust in accordance with complex laws and regulations. The trustee’s role is both vital and challenging, requiring diligence, compassion, and an understanding of public benefit

Estate planning for blended families requires careful thought, clear communication, and tailored legal instruments. By using wills, trusts (including QTIP and credit shelter trusts), beneficiary designations, marital agreements, and other tools, you can protect your spouse and children in a way that reflects your unique family dynamics. Regularly review your plan as circumstances change, and consult with experienced estate planning professionals to navigate complexities.

Married couples in the United States may live in either community property states or common law (separate property) states. The distinction affects how your property is owned, how it is divided upon death or divorce, and how it is taxed at transfer. With remote work and post‑pandemic relocation trends, more families are crossing state lines than ever before, making it critical to understand how property regimes impact your estate plan. This guide explains the key differences.

Special needs trusts are vital tools for families who want to provide for loved ones with disabilities without jeopardizing means‑tested benefits. By understanding the types of special needs trusts, carefully selecting trustees, funding the trust appropriately, and adhering to benefit rules, you can ensure that your beneficiary enjoys a high quality of life now and in the future. Work with experienced attorneys and advisors to build a plan that integrates the trust with other

The SECURE Act and SECURE 2.0 represent the most significant changes to retirement account inheritance in decades. For trustees administering special needs trusts, these laws create opportunities to preserve tax benefits, maintain public assistance eligibility, and incorporate charitable legacies. They also require action: updating trust documents, coordinating beneficiary designations, and educating families. Staying informed allows trustees to navigate these rules confident

Staying on top of your estate plan is essential for protecting your family and preserving wealth. This guide explains why experts recommend reviewing your plan every three to five years or whenever a major life event occurs. Learn how marriage, divorce, births, deaths, new assets, relocation and tax law changes—including the 2026 increase of the federal estate tax exemption to $15 million palmcitylawyer.com —should trigger updates, and discover practical steps for keeping up

With nursing home costs soaring and Medicaid eligibility rules tightening, many families worry about losing their life savings to long‑term care. A Medicaid asset protection trust (MAPT) is an irrevocable trust designed to shield a home and other assets from being spent down while still qualifying for Medicaid benefits. This comprehensive guide explains how MAPTs work, the five‑year look‑back rule, state variations, potential drawbacks, and the importance of early planning.

Estate planning empowers LGBTQ individuals to define their legacy, protect chosen family, and ensure their values are honored. It offers legal protection against discrimination, estranged relatives, and outdated laws. By drafting wills, trusts, powers of attorney, health care proxies, and guardianship designations, individuals control who inherits property, who makes medical decisions, and who will care for children and pets.

Managing multi-generational trusts is complex but rewarding. By addressing diverse needs, focusing on sustainability, and fostering effective communication, trustees can ensure the trust achieves its objectives across generations. Use this guide as a roadmap to navigate the intricacies of multi-generational trust management and build a lasting legacy for years to come.