It is, of course, painfully difficult to call what Reed and Cohen put together anything like valid asset protection planning. Sadly, at a certain low level this is the standard of practice, such as it is, that goes on with mass-marketed asset protect… Read More

The conversation around successions can be [sensitive], because it brings up all the same issues one faces when starting a business — only this time, you’re forced to imagine it without yourself in the picture. When it comes to business, successi… Read More

One of the most notable trends in philanthropy, according to the 2012 Giving USA Study of charitable giving, is that international giving has steadily grown despite a tumultuous economy. Thinking about going global with your charitable giving? When i… Read More

Artwork can be really valuable. Thus, it is hardly surprising that artwork will be a contentious matter in estate tax cases. When it comes to estate planning, determining the value of artwork can be disputable and very difficult to pin down. However,… Read More

You must report 2012 gifts on Form 709 even if you don’t owe tax. Among other things, that’s so the IRS will know how much of the $5.12 million ($5.25 million for 2013) tax-free amount you have used so far. April 15 is approaching fast, and the t… Read More

The silent party to all the fighting is, of course, Luray Caverns. It is not just a U.S. Natural Landmark. It is also a business, and businesses can suffer when their owners are at war with each other. Family businesses have a tough time passing from… Read More

A POA is a legal document that is based on your state’s law that authorizes someone to act on your behalf. A Power of Attorney (POA) is an essential tool for your estate plans, and a mighty strong one at that. In effect, every adult should have one… Read More

…In general, the lasting anger and bitterness of litigation doesn't seem to occur when matters are settled by mediation. Inheritance battles are nothing new. We see several of them make their way into courtrooms far and wide, exposing the fami… Read More