When Someone Tries to Honor a Deceased Person’s Wishes—But It Wasn’t in Writing, Nobody Is Happy
When a loved one’s wishes aren’t written in a valid Nebraska will or trust, it often leads to family conflict, delays, and costly mistakes in probate. In this post, I explain what happens when property isn’t clearly addressed in your Nebraska estate plan—and why written planning is the best way to protect your family.
What Happens If You Die Without a Will in Nebraska?
Dying without a will in Nebraska leaves your estate in the hands of the state—not your family. In this post, I explain what happens during Nebraska intestate probate, who inherits under Nebraska law, and why proactive Nebraska estate planning protects your loved ones.
Why Probate in Nebraska Is More Than Just Paperwork
Many people think probate in Nebraska is simple paperwork—but the reality is months (or even years) of delays, family conflict, and unnecessary costs. In this post, I explain why probate is so draining, and how a well-structured Nebraska estate plan can help your family avoid it.
The Hidden Risks of DIY Estate Planning Templates in Nebraska
DIY estate planning templates may look convenient, but they often create serious legal risks here in Nebraska. In this post, I walk through the hidden dangers of using templates for your Nebraska estate plan—and why working with an experienced Nebraska estate lawyer is the safer choice for your family.
Why ‘Good Enough’ Estate Planning Won’t Protect Your Nebraska Family
Too many families in Nebraska assume their old will or a basic online form is “good enough” to protect their loved ones. But when it comes to Nebraska estate planning, outdated or incomplete documents can expose your family to probate, conflict, and unintended outcomes. In this post, I explain why estate planning is a process—not just paperwork—and why “good enough” won’t cut it when your family’s future is on the line.
Naming Guardians: A Critical Step for LGBTQ+ Parents in Estate Planning
For LGBTQIA+ parents in Nebraska, naming guardians for minor children is a critical part of estate planning. Learn what to consider — and how to protect your children and your wishes — with a clear, affirming plan.
An Estate Plan Should Be More Than Just Transferring Assets
Your estate plan can do more than just transfer assets. This Nebraska estate planning guide explores how sharing your stories, values, and personal legacy can create a more meaningful and lasting impact for your family.
Living Will vs. Last Will and Testament: What’s the Difference?
A Living Will and a Last Will and Testament serve two very different purposes in your Nebraska estate plan. Learn what each document does — and why you need both — in this clear guide.
Why Proactive Estate Planning Matters
Estate planning isn’t just about what happens after you’re gone. This post explains why proactive planning — especially for potential incapacity — protects your well-being and your family during life, not just after death.
Mistakes in Wills: Why Small Errors Can Lead to Big Problems
A will is only helpful if it’s legally sound. In this post, learn how common mistakes in wills — from execution errors to outdated beneficiaries — can derail your estate plan and cause big problems for your family in Nebraska probate court.
The Estate Plan They Wanted — But Ran Out of Time to Sign
One family called for help — but by the time I returned to the hospital, it was too late to sign. Here’s why timing matters so much in estate planning, and why asking your loved ones to plan ahead is an act of care.
The Price Tag vs. The True Cost: Estate Planning’s Most Expensive Myth
In estate planning, the biggest cost isn’t the price you pay today — it’s what your family could face later. This post explains why proper Nebraska estate planning protects more than just assets — it protects peace of mind.
When an 8-Year-Old Inherits Millions — Is He Really Protected?
What happens when a child inherits millions without a plan? Using a high-profile case as an example, this post explains why estate planning is essential — for families of all sizes — to protect minor children and manage assets responsibly.
The Biggest Estate Planning Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
Estate planning should do more than create a stack of documents — it should create a plan that actually works. This post walks through some of the most common estate planning mistakes and how to avoid them, so your plan protects what matters most when it’s needed.
What Happens to a Home in a Nebraska Trust After the Owner Dies?
Wondering what happens to your home if it’s placed in a Nebraska trust? A properly drafted and funded Nebraska trust can help your loved ones avoid probate and simplify the transfer of your property after death. Here’s how the process works — and why getting it right matters.
What Harvey Milk’s Story Teaches Us About Legacy, Family, and Legal Protection
Harvey Milk’s legacy offers valuable lessons for LGBTQ+ estate planning and family law. Learn how his story connects to legacy planning, guardianship, and protecting chosen family — and how Nebraska families can plan ahead.
A Trust Is Only as Strong as Its Trustee: How to Choose Wisely in Nebraska
Your trust is only as strong as the person managing it. In Nebraska, a trustee’s role comes with serious legal duties—and the wrong choice can lead to conflict, poor management, or even litigation. Learn what qualities to look for, what Nebraska law requires, and why sometimes the best trustee isn’t a family member at all.
What You Need to Know About Transfer on Death Deeds in Nebraska
A Transfer on Death (TOD) deed can seem like an easy fix to avoid probate and keep things simple after you’re gone—but without proper planning, it can leave behind more confusion than clarity. In this post, we break down how TOD deeds work in Nebraska, where they fall short, and what to consider before using one as your estate plan.
If It’s Not in Writing, It’s Not a Plan (Especially in Nebraska)
“Everyone knew what she wanted”—until no one could agree. In Nebraska, unwritten wishes don’t mean much in probate court. This blog breaks down what happens when intentions aren’t documented, who gets what under intestacy laws, and why even the best families fall apart without a valid will or trust in place.
“If I Already Have a Will, Why Would I Need a Trust?”
Wills and trusts both serve a purpose—but they’re not interchangeable. This post breaks down the key differences under Nebraska law and explains why trust-centered planning often provides greater flexibility, protection, and peace of mind, especially for seniors, blended families, and those concerned about incapacity.
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