Posts by Susan Sandys
Arizona Wills FAQ
What is a will? Your last will and testament is a legal document that lets you say how you want to distribute your property to your family members and friends after you die. In this document, you will also name an executor, or personal representative, who is in charge of distributing your property. There are…
Read MoreHow to Be a Legal Guardian
When parents prepare their estate plans, one of the most important questions is who will care for their minor child if they are no longer able to. This person will become the legal guardian for that child, should something happen to the child’s parents. Agreeing to be a legal guardian of a minor is a…
Read MoreArizona Estate Planning for Snowbirds
“Snowbirds” is the affectionate term that refers to retirees in northern states who spend cold winter months in warmer places. Arizona is a great place in the United States for snowbirds to visit, with hundreds of golf courses and luxury RV parks around the state drawing in crowds from across the country. Although estate planning…
Read MoreHow Much Does Probate Cost in Arizona?
Probate is the legal process by which a deceased person’s assets are legally distributed to their heirs. This process can be long and confusing as well as costly depending on the size of the estate. Here is what you need to know about potential costs you may encounter during the probate process. Court Costs If…
Read MoreLiving Trust vs. Last Will in Arizona
You have an estate that consists of all that you own, no matter how modest or extravagant the sum of your possessions. Estate planning is needed so that your wishes will be carried out should you become incapacitated and after your death. In Arizona, the most common ways to handle estate planning is by preparing…
Read MoreHow to Apply for SSI for your Disabled Adult Child
Caring for disabled loved ones can sometimes place a financial strain on families. The United States provides some financial assistance to disabled children and adults through SSI or supplemental security income. Applying for funds is an administrative process that requires patience, paperwork, and time. Definitions Before diving into the process, it’s important to understand different…
Read MoreFunding A Trust
I write a lot about the importance of creating a revocable living trust as a way to protect your assets during your life and as a way to ensure that your loved ones are able to enjoy the property after you are no longer with them. Today, let’s explore how to link your assets with…
Read MoreTypes of Deeds and Property Ownership in Arizona
A deed is written evidence of ownership of real property, such as the family home or other real estate. When property is sold or otherwise transferred between owners, a new deed that memorializes this transaction is then created. Arizona recognizes a number of different types of deeds. Each deed serves a different purpose so it…
Read MoreFour Ways to Avoid Probate in Arizona
Probate is the court process where your belongings pass to your family after you pass away. Because probate can be expensive and time-consuming at a stressful point in your loved ones’ lives, it’s often better to avoid probate if you are able. Additionally, because probate is a court process, all submitted documents are part of…
Read MoreDo I Need A Probate Lawyer?
Dealing with a family member’s death is incredibly stressful. Having to go through the probate process with no guidance can make matters even worse. The first thing to determine is whether you need to do a probate at all. Related article: 10 Common Questions about the Probate Process in Arizona Does the Estate Qualify for…
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