Kathleen Siemont

How do I obtain a credit report for a deceased person? The spouse or executor of the estate may request the deceased person’s credit report by mailing a request to each of the credit reporting companies.  Send a letter along with the following information about the deceased: Legal name Social Security Number Date of birth Date […]

In the JD Supra article, “Trust Administration vs. Will Probate: Which Process is Best for You?” Sharan Sekhon of Lasher Holzapfel Sperry & Ebberson PLLC outlines the key distinctions practitioners should understand when guiding families through post-death settlement choices and processes. The focus is on comparing timelines, oversight, costs, privacy, and practical pitfalls that often

In the JD Supra article, “Wills, Trusts and Powers of Attorney: What’s the Best Estate Plan for You?” Breanna Young of Dentons distills the key concepts and practical takeaways from the source to help readers understand how these documents work together to protect assets, manage incapacity, and implement legacy objectives. Analysis/Commentary: Why These Documents Matter

By Stuart C. Bear and Ryan M. Prochaska “I just want the children to get along,” say Mom and Dad in virtual unison. The ability of the children and grandchildren to get along is a direct result of the family’s functionality. Unfortunate as it may be, dysfunctionality is not an uncommon state of affairs for the estate

Although blended families are common, they often encounter unique complexities after the death of a loved one. Assets may be left outright to a surviving spouse, who may then change the terms of the estate plan. Careful estate planning helps prevent disputes when emotions are high, avoids unintended disinheritance, and ensures assets are distributed according

When an estate owns rental property, the Personal Representative must strike a careful balance between the statutory obligations landlords owe to tenants and the fiduciary duties owed to the estate’s beneficiaries. While the law requires landlords to maintain habitable, safe, and functional living conditions, a Personal Representative must also ensure that the estate’s assets are

12 Steps for Avoiding Identity Theft After the Death of a Loved One July 16, 2024 ~ Hannah Murray By Mark K. Harder Crimes Against Deceased Loved Ones It used to be that the main crime against deceased people was burglarizing their homes while the family attended the funeral. Now, identity theft is a common fraud against the

  Essential Estate Planning for Widows and Widowers: Navigating Life After the Devastating Loss of a Spouse in 2025  Losing a spouse is an incredibly difficult experience that requires making important financial and legal decisions during a time of grief. This guide to estate planning for widows and widowers helps you navigate the process of

Exploring California Probate Resources Navigating the California probate process can be a daunting task for many individuals. However, with the right probate resources and tools at hand, the complexities associated with probate proceedings can be simplified. In California, there are several key probate resources that can aid individuals in this process. One of the primary