How Do You Transfer a House to Your Children Without Going Through Probate in NC?
In North Carolina, the two main ways to transfer a house to your children without probate are through a revocable living trust or by adding them as joint owners with…
Moving to Brunswick County? Why Your Out-of-State Estate Plan Won’t Work Here
If you signed your will, trust, or power of attorney in another state before moving to Brunswick County, NC, there's a good chance it's still legally valid, but that doesn't…
Probate in Brunswick County, NC: What Families Need to Know
If your loved one lived in Brunswick County when they passed away, probate gets filed at the Brunswick County Courthouse in Bolivia, no matter which town they called home, whether…
What Happens to Your Social Security Benefits When You Die?
When you die, your own Social Security retirement or disability benefits stop immediately and are not paid for the month of death. However, your surviving spouse, minor children, and, in…
How Often Should You Review Your Bank Account Beneficiaries?
Most people spend a fair amount of time thinking about their will. They think about who gets the house, who takes care of the kids, and who serves as executor.…
What Does “Incapacity” Mean Under North Carolina Law?
Under North Carolina law, an incapacitated adult is someone who lacks sufficient capacity to manage their own affairs or to make and communicate important decisions about their person, family, or…
What Is an Estate Inventory and Who Has to File One in NC?
If you’ve recently lost a loved one and found yourself named as executor of their estate, you may be hearing terms thrown around that feel unfamiliar and a little overwhelming.…
Why a $20 Online Will Could Cost You Thousands in Probate
You've seen the ads. "Create your will in minutes for just $20." It sounds like a smart, efficient solution, and honestly, it's hard to blame anyone for clicking. Life is…
Just Married? Here’s Why Estate Planning Should Be Next
The flowers have been thrown, the honeymoon photos are posted, and you're finally settling into life together as a married couple. It's a beautiful season, and the last thing most…
When to Start Succession Planning for Your Wilmington Business
If you're like most business owners in Wilmington, you're so focused on running your company day to day that thinking about your eventual exit seems like something you can put…