Planning for your pets isn’t just sentimental—it’s a real legal issue in Nebraska. Because pets are treated as property under state law, they aren’t automatically protected if you’re hospitalized or pass away. A Will alone won’t cover them during an emergency, and leaving money “to” a pet isn’t legally possible. The good news is Nebraska law gives you strong tools, including Pet Trusts under Neb. Rev. Stat. § 30-3834, to make sure your animals are cared for exactly the way you intend. With the right mix of a Power of Attorney, a Will or Trust, and clear care instructions, you can prevent your pets from ending up in a shelter and give your caregiver everything they need to step in confidently when life doesn’t go according to plan.

When an aging parent starts to decline, Nebraska families often wonder whether they truly need to go through guardianship — or if a Power of Attorney is enough. In Nebraska, the process is unique: judges must use the “least restrictive alternative,” Court Visitors investigate the parent’s situation, and guardianship and conservatorship carry serious reporting duties. This guide breaks down how those roles work, when a POA can avoid court altogether, and when guardianship becomes the only safe option. If you’re trying to protect a parent’s dignity while keeping them safe, this is a practical place to start.

Your life has eras—so should your Nebraska estate plan. Whether you’re single, partnered, parenting, caregiving, or planning your legacy, your documents need to grow with you. Here’s how to stay legally in tune with every stage of life.

Many Nebraska spouses are surprised to learn that marriage alone does not give them the legal authority to manage finances or make healthcare decisions if their spouse becomes incapacitated. A Nebraska durable power of attorney is essential for protecting yourself and your spouse in the face of dementia, cognitive decline, or other medical challenges. Here’s why acting early matters — and how the right documents can help you avoid court.

A dementia diagnosis is never easy—but it’s not the end of the conversation. In fact, it’s the moment to start asking the right questions and making clear, compassionate decisions. The earlier you plan, the more options you have. From legal documents to care teams and everything in between, this post breaks down how to take action now so you’re not scrambling later.

Marriage doesn’t automatically give you the legal authority to act on your spouse’s behalf. If your partner becomes incapacitated and you don’t have a power of attorney in place, you may be blocked from accessing accounts, managing bills, or even talking to their insurance provider. Love and commitment matter—but in the eyes of the law, it’s all about agency. And that has to be granted, not assumed.