In Minnesota, a will must be in writing. Minn. Stat. § 524.2-502(1). Unlike a will, a trust can be created either orally or in writing unless the trust would change an interest in land. Minn. Stat. § 501C.0407. Trusts created only orally are called “oral trusts” and have sett [...]
Using a written power of attorney, a person (called a “principal”) can appoint someone as their agent (often called an attorney-in-fact) to manage their financial affairs. In Minnesota, a written power of attorney that is dated and properly signed is presumed to be valid. Min [...]
November is National Family Caregiver Month, a time to recognize and support family caregivers. It is also the month in which we reflect and express gratitude and thanks for those in our lives and, for many of us, celebrate Thanksgiving. While the holidays are sure to look [...]
What is Elder Law? Elder law is the field of law dealing with estate planning and benefits, including related disability issues. Among other things, elder law attorneys handle benefits applications, facility placement applications, powers of attorney, health care directives, [...]
What are the essential legal documents a person should have in place? Associate Attorney, Lauren Fink at Maser, Amundson, Boggio, P.A., suggests having at least a power of attorney, health care directive, and/or a will by the age of 18. By doing so, you are covered if a life- [...]
The Stamp of Approval Stamp collecting is one of the most popular hobbies in the world. But what brings us joy during our lifetime can often cause headaches for our loved ones after we die. While we may spend our life collecting thimbles, our loved ones may be stuck trying [...]
When it comes to estate planning in Minnesota, not everything is black and white. Each estate plan can and should be designed and created based on the person and their unique situation, beliefs and wishes. It takes thought and consideration. Before you begin or update your es [...]
Life Care Planning is a TEAM approach to organizing care for a loved one with a chronic, progressive, and/or debilitating illness. It is a service that helps people access and pay for quality care and provides guidance while navigating the healthcare maze with the assistance [...]
Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative disease where symptoms of dementia gradually increase and intensify over the years, making it difficult for seniors to live out their normal daily lives. Alzheimer’s affects more than 5 million people in the United States and has become an i [...]
It is your eighteenth birthday, making you legally an adult in Minnesota. This means you can make your own decisions and finally take control of your destiny, right? As your first act as a responsible adult you… create a Health Care Directive? Prior to age 18, your legal guar [...]
