Beaufort Estate Planning News

Understanding Child Custody in North Carolina: Physical vs. Legal Custody

September 16, 2024

Navigating child custody during a divorce can be one of the most emotionally challenging aspects for families. In North Carolina, child custody is divided into two distinct categories: physical custody and legal custody.  Understanding how these categories work is essential for parents seeking to establish a stable, loving environment for their children. Below, we break…

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Should You Create Your Own Estate Plan?

August 14, 2024

With information at our fingertips online, it’s easy to search for solutions – whether you’re fixing a leaky faucet or troubleshooting your car. However, when it comes to complex legal matters like estate planning, relying on the internet can lead to significant challenges. Estate planning is more than just filling out a form or downloading…

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older couple looking at paperwork

What Does Dying Intestate In North Carolina Mean?

July 11, 2024

A common question we receive at Schulz Stephenson Law is: What happens if I pass away without a will in North Carolina? When someone dies without a will, known as dying “intestate,” North Carolina law determines what happens to their estate. In this article, we’ll explore how state law distributes property when someone dies intestate…

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How Can I Support Charitable Causes in My Will?

February 26, 2024

You don’t have children or any other surviving family members that you want to leave your estate to, or you do, but you prefer to leave behind your assets to a cause where your one-time gift makes a larger impact and potentially is a gift that keeps on giving, what do you do? Leaving a…

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How Often Should I Update My Estate Plan?

January 31, 2024

Each year, the assisted living referral company, Caring.com, performs an annual “health check” on the different aspects of estate planning among Americans. Their 2023 Wills and Estate Planning Study shows that while 64% of our country’s residents view having a will as important, especially in light of inflation during recent years, only 34% of the…

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couple taking off wedding ring

The Impact of Infidelity on Divorce in North Carolina

October 17, 2023

For many couples in Beaufort and throughout North Carolina, infidelity can be a deeply painful experience. It often leads to mistrust, heartbreak, and, in some cases, the end of a marriage. If you’re considering a divorce due to infidelity, it’s essential to understand the legal implications and how the state of North Carolina views cheating…

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discussing divorce with counselor with child

5 Ways to Have Discussions with Young Children About Divorce in North Carolina

August 25, 2023

Divorce is an emotionally challenging process for everyone involved, especially young children who may not fully understand what is happening. Many parents going through a divorce in North Carolina are concerned about how to discuss this significant life change with their young children.  If you’re going through a divorce in the Beaufort area, you’re not…

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Can I Get A Divorce In North Carolina If My Spouse Doesn’t Want One?

August 15, 2023

Navigating a divorce is challenging in itself, and it becomes even more complex when one partner is reluctant to end the marriage. If you find yourself in this heart-wrenching position, it’s important to understand that you’re not alone. Each year, many individuals face the same circumstances, seeking the closure of a relationship that no longer…

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family carrying moving boxes

Estate Planning Considerations When Moving To North Carolina

June 15, 2023

Moving to a new state is an exciting time, but amidst the hustle and bustle of moving, it’s crucial to consider your estate plan. Just as you’re changing your address, your will and other estate planning documents might need updating, too. Each state, including North Carolina, has unique laws and considerations, and ensuring your plan…

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signing prenuptial agreement

Prenuptial And Postnuptial Agreements In North Carolina

May 18, 2023

Are you considering tying the knot or looking to safeguard your financial future in your existing marriage? If you’re in North Carolina, prenuptial and postnuptial agreements can provide the peace of mind and financial clarity you need. These legal tools help couples navigate the often complex financial aspects of their relationships by outlining the division…

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