What Do I Need to Retire?

One of the biggest threats to your financial security isn’t the markets, interest rates or even your job security. It is a lack of preparation, particularly for unexpected events, that usually leaves investors reeling when markets swoon. If you haven’t protected yourself from the potential downsides in life, after all, then it’s difficult to maneuver when the unforeseen strikes.

Am I Making One of the Five Common Estate Planning Mistakes?

May 6, 2020
Bill O’Leary, Esq.
Asset Protection, Elder Law, Estate Planning, Life Insurance, Long-Term Care Planning, Power of Attorney, Probate and Estate/Trust Administration

When is the last time you updated your will? Could your beneficiaries have changed? If you have a trust, did you actually fund it? Is your plan ready for the new SECURE Act? Here are five mistakes you don't want to make.

Coronavirus Stimulus Allows Retirees to Tap Funds Early, With Little or No Penalties

May 5, 2020
Bill O’Leary, Esq.
Asset Protection, Elder Law, Estate Planning

Lawmakers in Washington are making it easier for Americans struggling with the fallout from the coronavirus to draw on the trillions of dollars in their 401(k)s and other retirement accounts.

What are the Penalty-Free IRA Withdrawals?

March 12, 2020
Bill O’Leary, Esq.
Asset Protection, Elder Law, Estate Planning

The contributions you make to your individual retirement account (IRA) are intended to supplement your income during your retirement years. However, as much as you'd like to let your IRAs remain untouched until retirement, unforeseen expenses may force you to withdraw some of those assets early.

Does My Mom Have to Pay My Dad’s Credit Card Debt after He Dies?

February 28, 2020
Bill O’Leary, Esq.
Asset Protection, Elder Law, Estate Planning, Power of Attorney, Probate and Estate/Trust Administration

My father recently passed away and we discovered he had a large credit card debt on a card in his name. My mother wasn’t aware of it. All assets are in both of their names. Is my mother liable for the credit card debt?

When Do I Need an Elder Law Attorney?

February 14, 2020
Bill O’Leary, Esq.
Asset Protection, Elder Law, Estate Planning, Guardianship, Long-Term Care Planning, Power of Attorney, Probate and Estate/Trust Administration

Elder law issues can be complex. One wrong word or move can mean the difference between a good result and disaster should you become incapacitated or if other unexpected issues should occur in your senior years. An elder law attorney can help you plan for what will happen, if you should become mentally or physically incapable of taking care of yourself and your own personal business matters.

Should I Change Beneficiary Designations if I Get a Divorce?

There are a number of reasons you may want to update your beneficiary designations on your investment accounts. Divorce might be one of them.

How Do I Set Up a Living Trust?

Setting up a living trust is largely the same, regardless of where you live in the U.S.

Your Will Isn’t the End of Your Estate Planning

June 14, 2019
Bill O’Leary, Esq.
Estate Planning, Probate and Estate/Trust Administration

Your estate plan isn't finished just because your attorney has drawn up a will. Proper asset titling is the next step.

The Estate Planning Conversation To Have with Your Parents

Parents are often more than happy to offer financial advice to their children. They like to feel needed and want to make sure you're on solid financial ground. However, it's important to turn the tables and ask about their financial plans, too.