What Kevin Costner’s Divorce Teaches Us About Prenups in Nebraska
Kevin Costner’s divorce and fight over prenup enforcement offers key lessons for Nebraska couples. In this post, I explain how Nebraska prenups work, why timing and transparency matter, and how to build a solid financial foundation—because in this case, if you build it right, it really can save you trouble later.
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 In this post, learn how common mistakes in wills — from execution errors to outdated beneficiaries — can derail your estate plan and cause big problems for your family in Nebraska probate court.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.
Why an Unfunded Nebraska Trust Can Be Worse Than No Trust at All
Many Nebraskans create a trust thinking their family will be protected — but if the trust isn’t properly funded, it may leave loved ones stuck in probate. In this post, I explain why an unfunded Nebraska trust can be worse than no trust at all, what “funding a trust” really means, and how to make sure your assets are protected the way you intended.
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 Are the Responsibilities and Limitations of a Guardian or Conservator in Nebraska?
If you’re thinking about becoming a guardian or conservator in Nebraska, it’s important to understand exactly what you can—and can’t—do. These are serious legal roles with clear responsibilities and limitations under Nebraska law. This post breaks down what you need to know to take on this responsibility with care and confidence.
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.
Why Is the Bank Ignoring Your Power of Attorney? (And What You Can Do About It)
When a bank refuses to honor a power of attorney, caregivers are left stuck—despite doing everything “right.” Learn why this happens, what Nebraska law actually says, and how I help families get the authority they need, when it matters most.
Being Power of Attorney Means Playing Defense—Even With Family
Being named Power of Attorney isn’t just about helping a loved one—it’s about navigating legal duties, emotional dynamics, and sometimes even family conflict. In this post, I explain why good record-keeping and transparency matter just as much with relatives as they do with government agencies, especially under Nebraska law.
When the Will Isn’t the Problem—Family Conflict Over Inheritance Is
Even the most well-intentioned estate plans can cause family tension if they’re unclear, outdated, or never talked about. In this post, I break down the most common reasons inheritance leads to conflict—and what you can do to protect your relationships, not just your assets.
Wills Are Important—But Here’s Where They Can Go Wrong
Having a will is important—but it’s not a guarantee that your wishes will be followed or that your loved ones will be protected from stress and confusion. In this post, I break down the five most common ways wills fall short and what to do instead, especially under Nebraska law. Whether you already have a will or are starting from scratch, this is what you need to know.
Power of Attorney vs. Guardianship in Nebraska: What’s the Difference?
Power of Attorney and Guardianship are both tools for helping someone make decisions—but they work very differently. This post breaks down how each works under Nebraska law, when they apply, and why planning ahead with a POA can often help you avoid the stress and expense of guardianship.
Avoiding Probate in Nebraska: When and How It’s Possible
Probate can be time-consuming, expensive, and public—but it’s not always necessary. This post breaks down when probate can be avoided in Nebraska, how tools like living trusts and small estate affidavits work, and what steps you can take now to make things easier for your loved ones later.
Big Change for Small Estates: Nebraska Increases the Real Property Cap for Small Estate Affidavits
Nebraska just made it easier to settle small estates without probate. As of July 19, 2024, heirs can now use a small estate affidavit to claim real property valued up to $100,000—double the previous limit. This post explains who qualifies, how the process works, and why this update matters for families navigating estate administration in Nebraska.
Why a Special Needs Trust Might Be the Most Important Thing You Do for Your Child
If you have a loved one with special needs, leaving them money in your will could unintentionally strip them of the benefits they rely on. This blog explains how a Special Needs Trust can protect their eligibility for programs like Medicaid and SSI—while still allowing you to provide meaningful financial support. Learn how these trusts work under Nebraska law, the different types available, and why getting it right matters.
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