In my estate planning practice, one of the most common misunderstandings among clients I see is their concept of wills, living wills, medical powers of attorney, and DNR’s. The majority of clients come to me either believing some or all of these terms are synonymous, or they confuse the concepts. ... » Learn More about Wills, Living Wills, Medical Power of Attorney, and DNR’s – Knowing the Difference Means Life and Death
Let Kids Be Kids – Grandparent Visitation Rights
Unfortunately, parents sometime use their children as pawns to manipulate others and get what they want or to simply feel a sense of control. With the majority of my practice devoted to estate planning and family law, I see this all-too-often. Grandparents whose children have estranged them from ... » Learn More about Let Kids Be Kids – Grandparent Visitation Rights
A Slap on the Wrist
Remember when you were little and your parents would slap your wrist when you were doing something you shouldn’t? Reaching into the cookie jar, twisting your hair, “digging for gold,” etc., etc. There are often times I want to slap my clients’ wrists (figuratively speaking, of course) as if in ... » Learn More about A Slap on the Wrist
Common Law Marriage
Under Iowa law, there are two ways for a couple to legally marry. The first is the traditional way: apply for a marriage license at your local courthouse and have a magistrate, judge, church clergy, Viva Las Vegas ordained minister, etc. perform the ceremony. The other way is with an implied “I ... » Learn More about Common Law Marriage
Things to Consider Before Blending Families
Blending families can be extremely joyous, but also stressful – emotionally and financially. Pre-planning can take much of the financial stress away. Before remarrying, consider the following items: A prenuptial agreement is useful to address what happens to your assets and debts in the event of ... » Learn More about Things to Consider Before Blending Families