Inheriting assets is a mix of honor and responsibility. As a Cobb County probate lawyer, I've seen many people unprepared for the implications of managing their inheritance. The inclination to treat an inheritance as "bonus" money is common, but there are many pragmatic ways to use these funds fo...

Going through a divorce is an emotionally charged, challenging process. Amid the whirlwind of legal proceedings, contacting an estate planning attorney might not be at the top of your to-do list—but it should be. A divorce, often referred to as dissolution of marriage, can stretch over several m...

For many retirees, dividing time between two beloved locations is the dream. Known as "snowbirds," these individuals enjoy northern US states in the summer before flocking to warmer climes come winter. While this lifestyle has many advantages, it can significantly impact the distribution of your...

If you've ever questioned the difference between guardianships and powers of attorney for seniors, you're not alone. As a Marietta elder lawyer, I often field questions about these two distinct yet related legal mechanisms. Here's an explanation to help you understand the nuances of each. Guardi...

Welcome to National Make A Will Month! 📜✨ This special month is all about empowering you to take control of your future by creating a Will. As an Estate Planning professional, I'm excited to highlight the importance of this essential document. Did you know that a significant percentage of indivi...

In this video, we discuss why your Power of Attorney (POA) might be rejected by your bank as 'too old' and what you can do about it. Many banks have policies regarding the acceptance of older POAs, which can lead to unexpected challenges. Watch to learn why this happens and how you can ensure you...

One common misconception when it comes to estate planning is the belief that one must have significant assets to establish a comprehensive plan. As an estate lawyer in Marietta, I'm here to tell you that this simply isn't the case. In fact, life insurance can play a crucial role in your estate pl...

As a Marietta estate planning lawyer, I often receive questions about the roles and responsibilities of an executor and a power of attorney (POA), especially in situations where a loved one is no longer living at home. A question I recently received encapsulates a common misunderstanding: "My mo...

He sat at the wooden desk, the early morning light casting a soft glow on the worn pages before him. The room was quiet, save for the occasional creak of the floorboards. His fingers gripped the pen tightly, his mind focused on the task at hand. Estate planning. The words echoed in his thoughts,...

Estate planning can seem daunting with its complex terminology and numerous components. But don't worry, this guide from our Marietta estate planning attorneys guide is here to help you navigate the basics. What exactly is estate planning?  Let's define the term to make it clearer. Estate plann...

In the event of a medical emergency, it's crucial to have your healthcare documents readily accessible and ensure that your treatment preferences are known to emergency personnel. Our Marietta estate lawyers have put together this article to discuss the benefits of carrying your directives with y...

A trust is a valuable estate planning tool that offers flexibility and control over the distribution of your assets. One essential aspect of managing a trust is opening a bank account in its name. This article will explore the key factors to consider when opening a trust bank account, including t...

Are you worried about the safety of an older loved one on the road? If so, you are not alone. Countless families face this issue every year, and it can be devastating for both the senior and their loved ones to deal with. The senior is often forced to confront the reality of losing their independ...

O Captain! My Captain! In the realm of estate, Where plans are laid, where futures wait, I sing of wills and trusts, of legal grace, As I traverse the path to secure my place. O lawyer! My lawyer! With wisdom and might, Guide me through the labyrinth, shedding light. With pen in hand, you craft ...

What is the purpose of estate planning in Georgia? Estate planning in Georgia serves several important purposes. It allows individuals to protect their assets, plan for the distribution of their estate after death, appoint guardians for minor children, minimize taxes, and ensure their wishes are ...

As a client seeking estate planning services in Georgia, your journey with us will lead to a positive transformation. Before Using Our Services:Before coming to us for estate planning assistance, you might have felt unsure and worried about the future. Questions about protecting your assets, tak...

Estate planning often revolves around leaving assets to family members, but what if you want to leave your estate to someone who isn't related to you? Many people have close friends, caretakers, or even charitable organizations that hold a special place in their hearts. In this blog post, our Mar...

You worked hard to provide for your spouse throughout your marriage, and you want to continue to do so well into your retirement years. When the need for nursing home care or assisted living is on the horizon, the cost of such care can weigh heavily. The good news is that asset protection pla...

A Will and a Trust are both legal documents that help people manage their property and assets after they pass away, but they work in different ways. An analogy that can help explain the difference between a Will and a Trust is to think of a Will as a letter that you write to your family ...

Stephen Worrall has been selected to the 2023 Georgia Super Lawyers list in the field of Estate Planning and Probate. This is the seventh year in a row, as he was selected in each year from 2017 through 2023. Each year, no more than five percent of the lawyers in the state are selected by the ...

Federal estate tax law includes a provision called portability. This provision only applies to married couples. It allows the surviving spouse to use any part of their deceased spouse's unused estate and gift tax exemption. Including portability in an estate plan protects the surviving spous...

Some seniors don't expect to remarry after a divorce or the death of a spouse. However, life is full of surprises. You could meet someone at any age, even during your retirement years. Many older adults bring various assets and debts into a new relationship. They might also have children fro...