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.
Name Your Child’s Guardian—Before a Nebraska Court Does It for You
If you don’t legally name a guardian for your children, a Nebraska court will decide who raises them. In this post, I explain why naming guardians is a key part of Nebraska estate planning, how to choose the right people, and why it’s important to keep your plan current.
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 But when it comes to Nebraska estate planning, outdated or incomplete documents can expose your family to probate, conflict, and unintended outcomes.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 In this post, learn how common mistakes in wills — from execution errors to outdated beneficiaries — can derail your estate plan and cause big problems for your family in Nebraska probate court.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.
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.
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.
Why LegalZoom Won’t Actually Save You Money in the Long Run
Thinking about using LegalZoom to save money? It might cost you far more in the long run. Here’s why DIY legal forms often fail under Nebraska law — and why working with an experienced attorney gives you real protection and peace of mind.
When a Spouse Has Dementia: Why a Nebraska Power of Attorney Is Still Essential
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.
What the Jimmy Buffett Estate Battle Teaches About Trust Planning in Nebraska
A bitter legal battle over Jimmy Buffett’s $275 million estate is making headlines—and offering a cautionary tale for anyone setting up a trust. Here’s what Nebraska families should take away from the case, and why trustee selection and transparency matter.
What Robin Roberts’ Story Teaches Us About Protecting Your Partner’s Rights in Nebraska
Robin Roberts’ marriage to her longtime partner highlights an important truth: in Nebraska, health care decisions for LGBTQ+ and chosen families require more than love—they require legal protection. Learn why Advance Directives and Durable Powers of Attorney are essential.
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.
Don’t Let This Happen to You: What Went Wrong With James Brown’s Estate
When James Brown passed away, he had a will, a trust, and an estate worth $100 million. So why did it take nearly 15 years to settle his affairs? The truth is, even with documents in place, poor planning, outdated terms, and family conflicts can send any estate into chaos—especially when intellectual property is involved. Here’s what happened to James Brown’s estate, and how you can avoid the same mistakes.
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.
Please note:
The content on this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice.
Reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship.
For personalized guidance tailored to your specific circumstances,
it's always best to connect with a qualified attorney.