Beaufort Estate Planning News

older adult looking over paperwork with younger adult

What Is a Power of Attorney and Why Do You Need One in North Carolina?

September 16, 2025

Life has a way of surprising us when we least expect it. A sudden illness, an unexpected accident, or the gradual onset of cognitive decline can leave even the most organized person unable to manage their financial and legal affairs.  This is where a power of attorney becomes one of the most important documents in…

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blended family on front porch

Estate Planning for Blended Families: Ensuring Fair Distribution Among Loved Ones

July 17, 2025

Blended families have become increasingly common across North Carolina, bringing together children from previous relationships, new spouses, and sometimes additional children born to the new union. While these families create beautiful new bonds and opportunities for love and growth, they also present unique estate planning challenges that require careful consideration and planning. Understanding the Complexities…

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siblings reviewing documents

Common Reasons Estate Disputes Occur in North Carolina

February 18, 2025

Did you know that over 44% of individuals involved in estate administration have encountered family disputes over inheritances? In North Carolina, such conflicts can arise from various sources, turning a time meant for honoring loved ones into a period of contention.  Understanding the common reasons behind these estate disputes can help you navigate and prevent…

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Protecting Your Child’s Interests in Estate Planning

December 11, 2024

Estate planning is important for anyone looking to secure their family’s future, but it takes on even greater importance when children are involved. As a parent, ensuring your child’s well-being and financial security is a great way to take care of your family and cement your legacy. By incorporating specific provisions into your estate plan,…

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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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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 paperwork

Five Reasons Having A Will & Estate Plan Are Important

April 27, 2023

Having a well-drafted will is of utmost importance in North Carolina to ensure that your estate is administered according to your wishes upon your passing. A will serves as a legally binding document that can outline the distribution of your assets, appoint a guardian for your minor children, and name an executor to oversee the…

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estate planning after divorce

Estate Planning Items To Consider After A Divorce

January 5, 2022

Considering filing for a divorce is a difficult decision, and the entire process can weigh on you physically, mentally, and emotionally. Divorcing couples deal with multiple challenges and life-changing decisions like property division and child custody.  During the divorce proceedings, all marital assets are valued as of the date of separation and typically divided equally.…

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diy estate planning

The Many Risks Of DIY Estate Planning

December 14, 2021

We live in an era that is rich in information. Are you trying to figure out how to do something? Just look it up on the internet, and odds are you’ll find something online with instructions on how to accomplish it.  Although you may find out how to fix something with your car or house…

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