| Limited Inheritance in Unusual Circumstances |
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| State statutes of descent and distribution are usually supplemented by other statutes or court rulings that limit or prohibit inheritance in unusual circumstances. This article discusses some of those unusual circumstances.More... |
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| Conservatorship Proceedings |
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| A durable power of attorney for finances is an inexpensive legal document that allows you to name someone to make your financial decisions if you become unable to do so yourself. The main reason to make a durable power of attorney for finances is to avoid court proceedings if you become incapacitated. If you do not have a durable power of attorney, your loved ones will have to ask a court to give them authority over your financial affairs. This procedure is usually called a conservatorship proceeding. Different states have different terms for the person appointed to manage your finances, including conservator, guardian of the estate, committee, and curator.More... |
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| Codicils |
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| In Latin, the word "codicil" means "little will. A codicil is a formal document that amends the provisions of a will. The amendments may change, modify, or supplement the provisions of a will.More... |
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| Trusts, Public and Private - I |
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| An express trust is either public or private. A public trust, also known as a charitable trust, is an express trust created for a charitable purpose. If an express trust is not a charitable trust, it is deemed to be a private trust. A private trust is an express trust created to benefit a few persons. This article discusses some aspects of public and private trusts.More... |
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| Executors -- Steps Prior to Opening the Estate |
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| The terms "executor," "administrator," and " personal representative" are all synonyms for someone who is legally responsible for managing the estate of a person who has died. The position of executor may be filled by a specific person named in the decedent's will or, if the decedent did not make a will, by someone whose relationship with the decedent makes him the legally responsible party (i.e., parent or spouse). The position can be refused.More... |
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