Creating a Testamentary Trust as Part of Your Will

Irene C. Olszewski, Esq. | April 25, 2012

By simple definition, a Testamentary Trust is a Trust created within and as part of a person’s Last Will and Testament (Will).  This type of Trust differs from Living Trusts in significant ways and I will not be addressing those differences in this post.  Instead, I will focus solely on the Testamentary Trust.
When your lawyer [...]

Considering a Prepaid Funeral Plan

Irene C. Olszewski, Esq. | April 23, 2012

We all hate to think about the inevitable but let’s face it folks, one day we are all going to die.  That said, it’s important to consider how your loved ones will have to manage the cost of your final arrangements.  Many people plan for those final costs with life insurance.  While that might work [...]

What is Considered Probate Property for a Decedent’s Estate?

Irene C. Olszewski, Esq. | April 12, 2012

When a Connecticut resident dies, his or her estate is handled by the Probate Courts in the town in which that person lived at the time of death.  There is often confusion about what property is considered part of the Probate estate.  In simple terms, the following property is included:
1.  Real Property owned solely by [...]

Sorry, It’s Not Your Inheritance … Yet!

Irene C. Olszewski, Esq. | April 9, 2012

A few weeks ago, I overheard a conversation between two guys who appeared to be in their early forties.
“Since my father retired,” the first guy said, “my parents are spending money like water.”
“I know what you mean,” said the second guy, “mine are doing the same thing.”
“They just bought a huge RV bus that cost [...]

Post-Divorce Estate Planning

Irene C. Olszewski, Esq. | March 19, 2012

Divorce can be a trying and emotional experience.  In the aftermath, it’s important to re-group and put your house in order, so to speak.  While recent divorced people are busy trying to start life over as a single person, there are many things they have to remember to do.  Revising their estate plans should be [...]

Leaving Your Passwords and Other Important Information for Your Loved Ones

Irene C. Olszewski, Esq. | December 15, 2011

Whether we like it or not, we are all going to meet our demise one day.  I’m not particularly looking forward to it, mind you — but I know that I have to think about it in practical terms because it will most certainly affect those I leave behind.  The emotional component aside, when I [...]

Estate Taxes and the Future of the Oakland Raiders

Irene C. Olszewski, Esq. | October 18, 2011

Here’s a post that should appeal to sports fans and probate estate fans alike.  (Sorry, I couldn’t resist).  I happened open upon this post written by my colleagues, Andy & Danielle Mayoras on The Probate Lawyer Blog. I thought it was worth passing along tonight. Enjoy!
Read:
Will Estate Taxes Force Al Davis’ Family to Sell [...]

Family Wages Legal Battle Over Control of Etta James’ Fortune

Irene C. Olszewski, Esq. | January 24, 2011

72-year old Etta James, the famed jazz singer most known for the classic, At Last, was diagnosed with advanced dementia and leukemia.  She is in need of total care and is unable to sign her own name.  Her husband of 41 years, Artis Mills has asked the court to add his name to her sole [...]

What’s In YOUR Adult Starter Kit?

Irene C. Olszewski, Esq. | August 27, 2010

I was in Maine to attend the wedding of a friend last weekend (a trip I enjoyed immensely, in case you were wondering). At a gathering on the eve before the ceremony, a few of us were engaged in conversation with the groom-to-be. After telling us about his job and future plans, he [...]

Where There’s a Will, There’s a Way

Irene C. Olszewski, Esq. | April 21, 2010

“In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.” — Benjamin Franklin

I find it interesting that people are diligent about obtaining life insurance policies to assist their loved ones financially after they die but so many put off preparing a Last Will and Testament. I’ve actually heard [...]