Category Archives: Estate Planning
What is a Holographic Will?
The holographic will is the most basic form of will that you can produce. The term “holograph” refers to the fact that the will is hand-written. In this article, the Law Office of Angela N. Manz will discuss holographic wills, their basic requirements, pertinent definitions, and more. Defining “holographic will” A holographic will is… Read More »
What’s the Difference Between a Living Will and a Regular Will in Virginia?
Ambiguous terms can be confusing, and many folks can’t tell you the difference between a living will and a standard will. To boot, there are also living trusts, which can add to the confusion. In this article, the Law Office of Angela N. Manz will discuss the difference between a living will and a… Read More »
What is a Pour-Over Will?
A pour-over will is a specific type of will that is designed to work in concert with a revocable living trust. It transfers any assets that were not included in the trust into a revocable living trust after you pass. In other words, if you forgot to include certain assets in your original will,… Read More »
What is a Limited Power of Attorney in Virginia?
In Virginia, a limited power of attorney is a legal document that appoints someone (called an “agent” or “attorney in fact”) to act on your behalf for very specific tasks or transactions. A general power of attorney grants the agent broad authority. On the other hand, limited power of attorney restricts your agent’s powers… Read More »
What Happens if You Die Without a Will in Virginia?
Clients sometimes pose the question, “What would happen if I died without a will?” It’s a common question that concerns folks who are worried about the cost of creating a will, how the will fits into their larger estate plan, or when older parents hesitate to finalize their estate plan. These are valid concerns,… Read More »
What Are the Different Types of Power of Attorney in Virginia?
One of the most important estate planning tools you can consider is a power of attorney (POA). These essential estate planning documents give someone you trust the authority to act on your behalf in specific circumstances. This includes managing finances, making health care decisions, or handling day-to-day responsibilities. Your POA will act as a… Read More »
Is it Ever Too Early to Draft an Estate Plan?
Well, if you ask an estate planning attorney, it’s never too early to create an estate plan. In truth, however, this is excellent advice. Creating a comprehensive estate plan is crucial to securing your financial future and ensuring your assets are distributed according to your will once you pass. Most folks delay this important… Read More »
Advantages of Securing Your Assets with a Trust in Virginia
A trust is a legal container for assets. Moreover, it is a legal arrangement where you (the grantor) transfer assets to a trustee, who manages these assets on behalf of your beneficiaries. The state of Virginia allows you flexibility in structuring your trust. An individual can serve as the trustee of their own trust,… Read More »
Planning for Your Pet: How Pet Trusts Can Ensure Your Beloved Pet is Cared For
Let’s face it. Pets are a part of your family. If they aren’t, then you’re doing it wrong. And as beloved members of your family, you worry about their wellbeing and want to ensure that they are properly cared for if you were to untimely pass. Under Virginia law, pet trusts are valid and… Read More »
What Are the Different Types of Power of Attorney in Virginia?
When it comes to securing your peace of mind about your future, one of the most vital estate planning documents you can have is the Power of Attorney (POA). In Virginia, a POA is someone you trust who has the authority to make decisions on your behalf under specific circumstances. Circumstances can include managing… Read More »