Written by Brandon C. Walecka, Esq. In order to avoid conflict, many parents and/or grandparents may decide to leave their children the same inheritance, although equal may not always be equitable. With the pandemic bringing the drafting and execution of more Wills, this issue is coming up more frequently. One stark example of this situation …
Estate Planning & Trusts
What if the Bank will not Accept the Power of Attorney?
Written by Brandon C. Walecka, Esq. Sometimes I get a call from a client after they go to a bank or other financial institution only to learn that the bank will not accept their family member’s power of attorney document. I will discuss strategies to discuss with your financial institutions to avoid this issue. …
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Revoking a Power of Attorney
Written by Brandon C. Walecka, Esq. Sometimes I get a call from a client who says, “I want to change my Power of Attorney.” First, what is a Durable Power of Attorney (DPOA)? This is a legal document in which you designate who you want to make legal and financial decisions for you if you …
When Should I Review my Estate Planning Documents?
Written by Brandon C. Walecka, Esq. Clients often ask about ideal times to review their documents. Although there is no hard-and-fast rule about when you should review your estate plan, I generally recommend that you should consider reviewing your documents upon the occurrence of a major life event, which may include marriage, divorce, or death …
Is an In-Law Suite Right for you?
As you age, your ability to support and maintain your own home may become increasingly difficult. Health and mobility concerns may make living at home no longer feasible. In some circumstances, an adult child may suggest that you build an in-law suite in their home. The child may think that such a move will allow …
What is a “no contest” clause?
Written by Brandon C. Walecka, Esq. A “no-contest” (also called in terrorem clause) provision is a clause that you can put in your Last Will & Testament to discourage a disappointed heir from challenging your estate plan. If an heir files a lawsuit against your estate, then such a clause effectively cancels that heir from …
What is a Last Will and Testament and Do I Need One?
Written by Brandon C. Walecka, Esq. The coronavirus pandemic getting you thinking about preparing a Will? You may be worried about how your exposure to the disease or preexisting health conditions may make you more susceptible to COVID-19. The need for an estate plan is constant, but now more than ever, we seek the peace …
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New Beginnings
Written By Brandon C. Walecka, Esq. After serving his clients throughout Southeastern Massachusetts and Cape Cod for nearly ten years at a mid-size elder law and estate planning practice, Attorney Brandon C. Walecka is delighted to announce the foundation of his new independent practice, Walecka Law, P.C. “I am elated to take the skills and experience …