This process is one that few people think about until they have to figure out how to deal with the estate of a loved one. For many this first-time involvement with the probate system illustrates the mess that can be left behind without proper planning.Probate is the...
For those getting a divorce, a beneficiary designation on a life insurance policy is not usually top of mind. And for that reason, states including Colorado, have passed laws that an ex-spouse beneficiary does not receive life insurance proceeds after a divorce unless...
In our post last week, we discussed the acceptance phase when you first learn a child or grandchild has special needs. This post is a reminder on the various tools – both old and new – available to ensure financial resources are in place without affecting government...
It’s not every day that a late-night show takes on the topic of guardianships (in Colorado these are two appointments – a guardian makes decisions about well-being and a conservator handles finances). The Last Week Tonight segment with John Oliver began...
The Colorado Court of Appeals recently affirmed the probate court’s holding that the former conservator and brother of a woman with mental illness had breached his fiduciary duty and engaged in theft when he converted his sister’s assets to benefit himself and his...
For a parent or grandparent, the realization that your child or grandchild has special needs can be difficult to accept. When you’re able to look ahead, however, you may see great uncertainty about your child’s ability to be able to live on their own, without special...
With any Colorado estate that requires probate court review, a final accounting summarizes receipts and payments during the estate administration process and remaining assets to disburse to heirs. The Colorado Judicial Branch provides standard forms that can help with...
Wrongdoing by trustees and personal representatives can take many forms. It could be outright theft from an estate or a long-term scheme to embezzle funds from a trust. The wrongdoing might be hard to uncover if it involves decisions that routinely favor one...
Giving strategies are as varied as the family. And while lifetime giving has tax advantages, it is often about more than tax planning.For many parents and grandparents, lifetime giving is an opportunity to help adult children with a down payment on a first home or to...
A couple months ago, a Fort Collins couple faced felony theft by exploitation accusations in South Dakota. The couple in their 60s allegedly stole funds from an elderly relative.Unfortunately, this situation in one that is too common. Family members, caregivers and...
