Trust and Estates Newsletters

Codicils

In Latin, the word "codicil" means "little will. A codicil is a formal document that amends the provisions of a will. The amendments may change, modify, or supplement the provisions of a will.

Per Capita and Per Stirpes

Suppose that an intestate is survived by three children and no grandchildren. Who inherits the intestate's net estate? How much does each person get? For most people, the answer is easy and obvious. Each child takes one-third of the intestate's net estate.

Powers and Duties of an Attorney-in-Fact

Your attorney-in-fact only has the financial authority you grant him in the document creating a durable power of attorney for finances.

Revocable Living Trust

In many jurisdictions, trusts cannot be revoked unless the trustor expressly retains the right to revoke. Revocable living trusts allow a trustor to manage his assets, to plan for his incapacity, and to avoid probate.

The Natural Objects of One's Bounty - III

This article is the third part of a three-part series describing the traditional names for the various members of one's family.