The impact of our lives, and even our deaths, is becoming a growing concern for many people. Cemeteries have been described as “landfills for bodies,” which year after year are filled with wood, metal, concrete, and embalming chemicals. Moreover, the graves are then covered with grass, which must be watered, fertilized and cared for to preserve […]
Cremation has been part of human history since ancient days. Archeological evidence from around the world show cultures following the practice as early as 8,000 B.C.E. The practice has gone through times of favor and disfavor, depending on religious acceptability. However, in the 21st century, as concerns about lack of burial space and environmental impact of […]
When making an estate plan, one important decision is what you want done with your mortal remains. That’s right, it’s not just your estate which needs planning for, but also your body when you’re no longer using it. Like most aspects of estate planning, the decision about what to do with your body is often an […]
If I am unmarried but have a partner who I will leave my assets to, what is the best way to do so and how would it differ if I was married? When it comes to protecting your unmarried partner, there are several options to consider. Depending on the value of your money and property, your […]
According to a 2019 survey conducted by the Pew Research Center, 7 percent of surveyed adults were living with an unmarried partner. This number is up from 3 percent in 1995.[1] More people, such as yourself, are entering long-term committed relationships without getting married. Unfortunately for unmarried partners, married couples tend to enjoy greater protection from […]
Annual exams are a part of life. As we age, these appointments grow more and more important to catch potential issues before they become serious. Similarly, due to ever-changing tax laws and interpersonal relationships, it’s a good idea for clients to review their estate plan regularly. When your estate plan is written, it reflects the situation […]
While watching a movie or reading a book about wealthy individuals and their families, you may have come across terms such as “heir,” “descendant,” and “next of kin.” Though made-for-Hollywood storylines use these terms interchangeably, words describing familial relationships have distinct definitions. Using the correct terms is critical in wills, trusts, and other legal documents because […]
The number of marriages in Texas has been in steady decline for years. The reasons for this vary, but it hardly means love or romance is dead. Most young couples choose instead to cohabitate, effectively acting as a married couple without the formality of a ceremony or even creating a common law marriage. Yet, these unmarried […]
