Aretha Franklin’s Will Was Found in Her Couch. Let’s Talk About Why That’s a Problem.

When Aretha Franklin’s handwritten will was discovered in her couch cushions, it sparked years of courtroom drama—and a lesson for all of us. In Nebraska, valid wills need more than good intentions. Here’s what you need to know about why a will scribbled on paper (and stuffed under a cushion) probably won’t cut it.

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U.S. Moves to Revoke Visas for Chinese Students: What Universities, Students, and Sponsors Need to Know

The U.S. has announced plans to revoke visas for certain Chinese students studying in undefined “critical fields” or with ties to the CCP. As universities and students scramble to understand the implications, our firm breaks down what’s known, what’s at stake, and how to prepare for the legal uncertainty ahead.

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Nebraska Legislature Passes Bill Restricting Transgender Student Athletes: What Comes Next

On May 28, 2025, Nebraska passed LB 89, a new law that bars transgender student athletes from participating on sports teams that align with their gender identity. Here’s what the law actually says, why it matters, and what students, families, and schools need to know moving forward.

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Dating After Divorce: What It Actually Means for Your Kids (and for You)

Dating after divorce isn’t just about swiping right—it’s about showing up for your kids and yourself with honesty, patience, and a little grace. In this post, we talk about what it really means to date again when you’re also parenting, and how to make choices that protect your peace and their stability.

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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.

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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.

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Should You Contest a Divorce in Nebraska? Here’s What You Need to Know.

Wondering if it’s worth contesting your divorce in Nebraska? This post walks through when it might make sense to stand your ground—especially in cases involving custody concerns, hidden assets, or power imbalances—and when the cost may outweigh the benefit. If you’re unsure what path to take, this is a smart place to start.

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“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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The Real Cost of DIY Estate Planning in Nebraska

Online wills and power of attorney forms might seem convenient, but they often fall short of Nebraska’s legal requirements—and leave families in crisis when they need support most. This post breaks down the real risks of DIY estate planning, from rejected documents to costly probate, and explains why professional guidance is a gift your family deserves.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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When a Power of Attorney Isn’t Enough: What Nebraskans Need to Know About Incapacity, Banks, and Red Tape

A Power of Attorney is supposed to make things easier during a crisis—but what happens when banks say no? This post breaks down why even valid POAs get rejected, what Nebraska law actually requires, and how to make sure your documents work when it matters most.

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Prince: No Will, No Peace (What His Estate Mess Can Teach You About Planning in Nebraska)

Prince died without a will—and the result was six years of legal chaos, family conflict, and millions lost to probate. If it can happen to someone with a $150 million estate, it can happen to anyone. This post breaks down what went wrong, how Nebraska law handles situations like this, and why having a plan isn’t just about money—it’s about peace.

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DACA Renewal in Nebraska: What You Need to Know in 2025

If you’re a DACA recipient in Nebraska, renewing on time is essential in 2025. This post breaks down everything you need to know—updated filing options, deadlines, documents, and what to expect after you file. It also explains why initial applications are still on hold and how to avoid delays.

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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.

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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.

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How to Get Guardianship of an Adult in Nebraska

When an adult can no longer make safe decisions, guardianship may be necessary. This post explains how to get adult guardianship in Nebraska under the state’s updated law, what steps are involved, and how the process protects both the individual and their rights.

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Estate Planning for Blended Families in Nebraska: Protecting Everyone You Love

Blended families come with love—and legal complexity. If you’re remarried or have stepchildren, your estate plan needs to be more than just a basic will. This post breaks down how Nebraska law handles blended family estates, why default rules often fall short, and what tools can help protect everyone you love.

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