When you make out a will, you describe what you want to happen to your property and assets after you die. Your surviving relatives, your executor and the court all have a responsibility to respect your wishes and fulfill them to the extent possible. If you die without a will, [...]

The definition of family is constantly evolving, but the law does not always keep pace. Navigating the legal nuances of stepparent adoption requires an understanding of the associated procedures. Stepparent adoption can be simple in situations where one biological parent has died or is otherwise absent, but if the biological [...]

An intense and stressful divorce can leave you, your ex-spouse and your children feeling overwhelmed at everything that happened. Even after this rough time, you still may notice subtle signs of manipulation and alienation from your ex-spouse toward your children. Knowing how parental alienation works and how it can hurt [...]

A will gives you the ability to name a trusted executor or personal representative to distribute your property after you die. By following your will’s instructions, the probate court oversees transferring assets to specified individuals. As noted by the Tampa Bay Times, you may also use your will to appoint [...]

Becoming a stepparent through adoption involves many factors—personal, legal, financial—and includes unique circumstances in every situation. Sometimes, though, your circumstances make it clear that becoming a stepparent improves many aspects of your family. While this decision remains a difficult one, the right situation allows you to proceed on that path [...]

A power of attorney authorizes a trusted agent to communicate on behalf of an ill or otherwise vulnerable individual. Two distinct types of legal documents offer protection. One may prevent medical mistreatment. The other could help avoid financial exploitation. As noted by Cancer.org, an advance directive provides instructions that help [...]

You and your spouse tried counseling, taking time for yourselves and talking with loved ones. Still, your marriage feels empty. Divorce seems like the only sensible response to the matter, but how do you start that conversation? Psychology Today offers tips for telling your marital partner you want a divorce. [...]

While planning your estate, you learn about health directives and health care proxies. How do these terms fit into your plan and affect your end-of-life desires? The American Bar Association explains health care proxies and health directives. Ensure you have someone in your life to express your health care wishes [...]

Sharing parenting responsibilities with your ex may feel complicated at first. While working together for your children may be in the best interests of your little ones, you may still feel overwhelmed at times. According to Healthline, people make several mistakes when it comes to co-parenting. For better results, you [...]

One of the most essential roles to fill is the executor when it comes to your will. According to CNBC, the executor files the will, pays off debts, closes accounts and distributes remaining assets. To ensure you choose someone who can fulfill all of the obligations of an executor, you [...]