Navigating probate without a will can be a legal nightmare. What if you discovered that your surviving spouse might not inherit everything? Join us on the Elder Law Report with McIntyre Elder Law as attorneys Samantha Gordon and Jane Dearwester uncover the harsh realities of intestate succession. You'll learn how this complex legal framework can impact your family, especially if you have minor children, multiple properties, or assets requiring streamlined distribution. Jane explains the legislative intricacies in Raleigh that can lead to unexpected complications for surviving spouses and family members.

During this episode, we break down the misconceptions around intestate succession and the extensive legal hurdles it creates. Samantha and Jane discuss the emotional and financial toll on families who must endure this lengthy, expensive process while already dealing with the loss of a loved one. We highlight why it's crucial to have a well-thought-out estate plan and avoid probate whenever possible. Gain invaluable insights to ensure your loved ones are protected and your assets are distributed according to your wishes. Don't miss this essential guide to safeguarding your family's future.

Can Medicaid really take back the assets you thought were protected after a loved one passes away? Discover the crucial answers in our latest episode featuring Attorney Brenton Begley and associate Samantha Gordon of McIntyre Elder Law. We explore the intricacies of Medicaid asset recovery, focusing on how Medicaid can place a lien on a probate estate to recover costs. Learn about the Community Spouse Resource Allowance and how it plays a role in asset protection, and understand the steps you need to take to safeguard your inheritance from Medicaid claws.

Our discussion delves into the probate process in North Carolina, highlighting how creditors, including Medicaid, can seize assets from an estate. Samantha explains the legal mechanisms behind this, shedding light on how real estate and other probate assets can be affected. But it’s not all bad news; Brenton and Samantha share proactive estate planning strategies that can help your family protect its financial future. Tune in for indispensable advice that could save your loved ones' inheritance and ensure that your hard-earned assets go where you intend.

Can sudden illness or injury devastate your financial stability? Discover essential strategies to protect your hard-earned assets from the exorbitant costs of long-term care in our deep dive into Medicaid crisis planning. We break down the myths surrounding Medicaid asset limits and discuss how legal guidance can ensure your wealth, including real estate and investments, remains safe. Learn how to strategically plan to qualify for Medicaid benefits while securing financial stability for yourself and your spouse during tough times.

In our exploration of tax and long-term care planning, we highlight the importance of preemptive measures to safeguard your wealth. Understand the benefits of retroactive tax planning and how you can potentially reclaim some of the taxes you've paid over the years. This episode isn't just about preserving your assets; it's about ensuring a secure future for your loved ones. Tune in for invaluable insights and guidance on estate planning focused on taxation and long-term care, complete with free consultations to help you navigate these complex issues. Join us and arm yourself with the knowledge to face these challenges head-on.

How can you ensure that your child or grandchild with special needs remains financially secure without disrupting their SSI and Medicaid benefits? Discover the intricacies of inheritance planning for heirs with disabilities in our latest Elder Law Report. We promise you'll walk away with actionable strategies, including the creation of special needs trusts during your lifetime, the setup of supplemental needs trusts within wills, and the incorporation of sub-trusts in existing trusts. These tools are crucial for maintaining the financial stability and care of your loved ones with special needs.

This episode offers a comprehensive guide to protect your special needs family members’ future, highlighted by real-life examples from families we work with. Understand why a special needs trust is a game-changer, how a testamentary trust can effectively manage inheritance, and the practicality of sub-trusts. Our detailed breakdown of each strategy will arm you with the knowledge to make confident, informed decisions about your estate planning. Tune in and gain peace of mind knowing your loved ones will be well cared for, without compromising essential benefits.

Ever wondered how to secure your family business for future generations while avoiding headaches like lengthy probate processes? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Britton Begley, where we reveal essential strategies to ensure a smooth transition of business ownership across generations. You’ll learn how to harness the power of LLCs and trusts to protect your assets and maintain control over business operations and income distribution. We share practical examples, like the innovative "Russian nesting doll strategy," to help you effectively organize and safeguard your business interests, even in long-term care scenarios.

In this episode, we also delve into the intricacies of business succession planning. Discover how trusts can provide financial security for children who may not wish to run the business or have special needs, ensuring they receive income streams without losing government benefits. Learn about appointing trustees, selling the business for liquid assets, and using incentives to encourage family participation in your legacy. Plus, we highlight the vital role of operating agreements and insurance policies in securing the financial future of partners and their families. Whether you're focused on protecting your business during your lifetime or ensuring a lasting legacy, this episode offers a wealth of valuable insights and strategies.

Unlock the secrets to safeguarding your legacy and ensuring your peace of mind with our special guest, attorney Greg McIntyre, founder of McIntyre Elder Law. Ever wondered how to protect your assets and secure long-term care without the stress of last-minute rushes? Greg lays out the cornerstones of estate planning, from the indispensable general durable power of attorney to the crucial healthcare power of attorney, living will, and last will and testament. By tuning in, you'll gain invaluable insights into why planning ahead is not just beneficial but essential for your financial and personal well-being.

Greg dives into real-life scenarios and expert advice, showing how these foundational documents can help you avoid guardianships and court oversight, manage healthcare decisions, and more. Imagine having the peace of mind knowing that your affairs are in trustworthy hands even if you become incapacitated. This episode serves as your comprehensive guide to navigating the often overwhelming world of estate planning. Don't miss out on the chance to learn from one of the leading voices in elder law and take control of your future today.

Can DIY estate planning really safeguard your legacy? Tune in as Jane Deerwester and I, Jordan Bentley, tackle this critical question on the Elder Law Report. In our latest episode, we promise to equip you with the knowledge to avoid the common pitfalls of DIY estate planning. Comparing the process to the complexities of DIY home improvement, we underscore the value of seasoned estate planning attorneys who can navigate the intricate legal landscape for you. Through our shared personal experiences, we illustrate how professional guidance can ensure your documents are both comprehensive and legally sound.

Discover the hidden risks of using DIY services like Google or LegalZoom, which could lead to costly litigation or unintended outcomes. We'll explore the vital role of professional estate planning to avoid the chaos and confusion that can arise from improper planning. Jane and I will walk you through the necessity of a personalized and professionally crafted estate plan that adapts to life's changes, such as births, deaths, or marriages. Whether you're starting from scratch or need a review, our team at McIntyre Elder Law is ready to provide expert assistance. Listen in to understand why entrusting your estate planning to professionals isn't just wise—it's essential.