Zapier is a web service that automates data flow between web apps, including MailChimp, Salesforce, Actionstep, Microsoft, and Google. Think of it as a bridge that can connect the various programs and tools that your law firm uses. What this means is that you can create an automated “Zap” that is triggered by some event […]

This is the second in a three-part series on the taxation of trusts. The first part reviewed how a trust can be “substantially owned” by someone, i.e., what is commonly known among Estate Planning or Trusts & Estates attorneys as a “grantor trust.” It also looked at the advantages of using a grantor trust. Here […]

I am excited to kick-off the month of July, which is one of my favorite months of the year. It is not my birthday or a special anniversary. I enjoy Fourth of July celebrations, but that is not why it is my favorite month. What would this make it one of my favorite months of […]

This is the first in a three-part series on the taxation of trusts. The first part reviews how a trust can be “substantially owned” by someone, i.e., what is commonly known among Estate Planning or Trusts & Estates attorneys as a “grantor trust.” It will also look at the advantages of using a grantor trust. […]

Most law firms recognize the importance of being active on different social media platforms. However, many treat social media marketing as an afterthought rather than something that can significantly impact their bottom line. According to a recent survey by the Pew Internet & American Life Project, 72% of the public uses some type of social […]

This is the second in a two-part series on Roth IRAs. The first part reviewed the basics of Roth IRAs. (Click here for the first article in the series.) This second part looks at two advanced planning strategies. The first advanced planning strategy is to use a Roth IRA to maximize the deferral on an […]

Planning ahead for end-of-life issues includes doing estate planning with a will and a trust as assets might dictate. But just as important is keeping those plans up to date. The American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys recommends reviewing plans every three to five years. It’s also a good idea to review the trust around […]

This is the first in a two-part series on Roth IRAs. This first part will look at the basics of Roth IRAs. The second part will look at more advanced planning strategies. An Individual Retirement Account (IRA) is a savings vehicle in which a deduction may be taken upon contribution (with limitations). The maximum contribution […]

Most parents are full of advice, aren’t they? Growing up, if your parents or those who had an influence in your life were anything like mine, they never failed to share their analysis on any given situation – solicited or not. They readily gave candid input on the daily to steer us in the right […]

An Estate Plan includes various different moving parts. The Revocable Trust may be the keystone of the plan, but it’s important to consider how the other parts of the plan will work with…or against…the plan. Let’s look at a simple example. John had three children and he wished to leave his assets to them equally. […]