How to Handle Disputes During Probate

Even in a Colorado probate proceeding that seems relatively straightforward, disputes can arise. Sometimes the disputes are strictly legal in nature, such as whether a decedent’s will is valid under Colorado law. Other times, conflicts arise over more nebulous issues, like whether the distribution of assets in a probate proceeding is “fair” or if there was “undue influence” upon the decedent. Continue reading

Charitable Estate Planning in Colorado

Most Colorado residents consider estate planning a means of providing for loved ones after their death, but it’s also an effective way of continuing to support causes in which you believe. With the assistance of an experienced and knowledgeable Colorado estate planning attorney, it is possible to provide for favorite charities, care for loved ones, and minimize taxes at the same time. One way to do this is by establishing a charitable trust. Continue reading

Dealing With a Decedent’s Qualified Retirement Plans

In the wake of a loved one’s death, heirs often find themselves managing a variety of assets. One type of asset that deserves special attention is the “qualified plan.” A qualified plan, or qualified retirement plan, is an employer-sponsored plan that meets certain criteria established by the IRS. Examples of qualified plans include pensions, profit-sharing plans, money purchase plans, cash balance plans, SEP-IRAs, SIMPLEs, and 401(k) plans. Continue reading

What is Post-Mortem Planning?

While most people intend to create an estate plan, or to update one they’ve already created, in reality, some people die without an ideal estate plan in place. Post-mortem is Latin for “after death,” and post-mortem planning is simply that: planning after death to maximize tax-saving opportunities, and minimize complications, for both the deceased person’s (decedent’s) estate and for the beneficiaries of the estate. Post-mortem planning needs of a Colorado estate will depend on a number of factors, including the size of the estate and any pre-existing estate plan created by the decedent. Continue reading