Menu
close

Blog Articles

Book An Initial Call Now

How Does a Living Trust Protect Your Legacy

February 15, 2024
A living trust won't be for everyone. However, it can provide big benefits for some. Many people use a living trust for one big reason: avoiding probate. However, there are other reasons you should seriously consider.
Read More

Understanding the Generation-Skipping Transfer Tax (GSTT)

February 13, 2024
As an estate planning attorney, I frequently encounter questions regarding the Generation-Skipping Transfer Tax (GSTT). This tax, often overlooked, plays a critical role in the strategic planning of estate transfers. In this article, I aim to demystify the GSTT and provide practical tax tips to those navigating this complex area. Understanding the Generation-Skipping Transfer Tax The Generation-Skipping Transfer Tax is a federal tax on transfers of property that skip a generation. This tax was introduced to prevent families from circumventing estate tax by transferring wealth directly to grandchildren or other “skip persons.” The Mechanics of GSTT The GSTT is levied…
Read More

Estate Planning for High Net-Worth Individuals with

February 12, 2024
Residual income, especially prevalent in the entertainment industry, refers to ongoing payments received for work done in the past. This income can stem from royalties in TV shows, movies, music, or books. A notable example is the late Matthew Perry, whose role in Friends brought him substantial residuals, as highlighted in a CNBC article. The Importance of Estate Planning for Residual Income For individuals with significant residual income, estate planning is crucial. It ensures that their assets are distributed according to their wishes and can help mitigate complex legal and financial issues after their passing. Case Study:…
Read More

How to Liquidate Assets after a Loved One's Death

February 11, 2024
The loss of a loved one is a difficult time, often compounded by the necessity of addressing estate settlement and the liquidation of assets. In this guide, we’ll explore the key steps involved in liquidating assets after death, focusing on estate settlement processes and related legal considerations. Understanding the Role of…
Read More

How Do Special Needs Trusts Work?- 2

February 10, 2024
One of the most commonly recognized instruments for protecting assets for a disabled beneficiary is through the use of a Special Needs Trust, also known as a Supplemental Needs Trust.
Read More

Estate Planning Tips for Blended Families to Protect New Goals and Loved Ones

February 9, 2024
Estate planning for blended families presents unique challenges. Unlike traditional family structures, reports Barrons recent article titled, “When Remarrying Creates a Blended Family: Advice From Financial Pros,” blended families often involve complex relationships and diverse financial backgrounds, making the process of estate and financial planning more intricate. This article has tips for blended families on identifying overall estate planning goals and concerns and identifying heirs to protect your new family and future.
Read More

Should You Have a Revocable Trust?

February 8, 2024
There is a lot of confusion out there about the difference between a revocable and an irrevocable trust.
Read More

How Does a Pour-Over Will Work?- 2

February 7, 2024
For those who want to avoid the court-controlled process that takes place after a person’s death (known as “probate”)—using a Revocable Living Trust is typically the best way to do so.
Read More

Why You Should Consider a Living Trust for Your Estate Planning

February 6, 2024
When it comes to estate planning, many people think of a will as the go-to document for ensuring that their assets are distributed according to their wishes after they pass away. However, a living trust can often be a more effective tool for many individuals, offering benefits that a will cannot provide. In this article, we’ll explore why you should consider a living trust to be a cornerstone of your estate planning strategy. What Is a Living Trust? A living trust is a legal document that places your assets into a trust for your benefit during your lifetime and then…
Read More

Navigating Business Succession: A Comprehensive Approach

February 5, 2024
As business owners focus on day-to-day operations and growth, the thought of leaving or selling their business often takes a backseat. However, as Frank Fantozzi, a certified exit planning adviser, emphasizes, “for most owners, the business is their largest asset.” This makes succession planning an exit strategy and a crucial part of overall business planning. The Importance of Early Succession Planning in Business Strategy Succession planning should be an integral part of a business’s foundation. Delaying this process can lead to complications, especially when unforeseen circumstances like the “5Ds” – death, disability, divorce, disagreement and distress – arise. Early planning…
Read More
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 … 20 21 22 23 24 … 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64
Sort By Category

Recent Posts

Book a Call Now
Let Us Help You Through This

Reach Out Now

What Sets Us Apart
We understand this process can be difficult. We ease you through it with your best interest in mind.

Legal problems are extremely stressful, especially when your family, your health, or your freedom are at stake. At this point in time, you may not even be sure what kinds of questions you need to ask a lawyer, but that’s entirely normal. Whether your situation involves family law, estate planning, elder law, a criminal charge, or a personal injury, we will start by giving you all the information you need.

The way we see it, you deserve to get this information directly from an expert. That’s why we make it easy for you to get in touch with your lawyer, and we never ask you to sit down with a paralegal or assistant instead.

As our relationship continues, we will keep you updated about the status of your case every step of the way. Your lawyer will reach out regularly to tell you about any new developments, and he will also be happy to answer any questions you have throughout the process.

Join Our eNewsletter

Stay informed and updated by subscribing to our eNewsletter!
Subscribe Now!
Law Offices of Claude S. Smith, III

805 Bigley Avenue
Charleston, WV 25302

Get Directions
Contact Us
Law Offices of Claude S. Smith, III

805 Bigley Avenue
Charleston, WV 25302

Get Directions
Integrity Marketing Solutions - Estate Planning Marketing
Powered by