When the State Writes Your Estate Plan—And Gets It Wrong

When you don’t have an estate plan in Nebraska, the state’s plan takes over—and it’s often the last thing you’d want for your family. If you have a loved one with a disability, that “default plan” can accidentally strip them of vital benefits like SSI or Medicaid. Here’s how to protect them, and why proactive planning matters.

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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.

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Why Naming Multiple Executors in Your Nebraska Will Is (Usually) a Mistake

Thinking of naming all your children as co-executors in your Nebraska will? It’s a common choice—but one that often leads to costly delays and family conflict. In this post, I explain why appointing multiple personal representatives is usually a mistake under Nebraska probate law, and how to structure your estate plan for clarity and efficiency.

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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.

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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 But when it comes to Nebraska estate planning, outdated or incomplete documents can expose your family to probate, conflict, and unintended outcomes.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.

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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.

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Estate planning, Nebraska probate, Trusts Zach Anderson Estate planning, Nebraska probate, Trusts Zach Anderson

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.

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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.

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