Law Offices of Terri D. Mason, P.C.

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What Happens When Your Last Parent Passes?

The passing of a parent is a profound and pivotal event in anyone’s life. It signifies not only the loss of a loved one but also a significant shift in family dynamics and responsibilities. When your last parent passes, it triggers a series of legal, emotional, and financial processes that can be overwhelming. Understanding these […]


Responsibilities of the Executor: What You Should Know

When managing the aftermath of a loved one’s passing, the role of an executor is both crucial and challenging. Appointed through a will or by a court, an executor is responsible for administering the deceased’s estate. This role involves a myriad of duties, from managing assets and paying debts to distributing inheritances. It’s essential for […]


Life Events that Should Trigger a Review of Your Estate Plan

Life is replete with a multitude of moments that shape our journey. Many of these life events not only affect our present but can significantly impact our future and the future of our loved ones. One of the tools that we use to safeguard that future is an estate plan.  At its essence, estate planning […]


How Do I Include Charitable Giving in My Estate Plan?

Leaving behind a mark in the world is an aspiration many hold. When individuals think about estate planning, it’s often about securing the future of their loved ones. But what about the causes and institutions that resonate with one’s values? This is where charitable giving in estate planning comes into play. An estate plan is […]


How to Help Your Parents Create an Estate Plan

The maze of estate planning can often be challenging, even more so when it involves discussing the future with aging parents. The phrase “estate plan” might seem daunting, but in reality, it’s a vital step to ensure that your parents’ wishes are respected and their assets are protected. Understanding Estate Planning: The Basics Estate planning […]


3 Major Estate Planning Mistakes You Could be Making Right Now

Planning for the future, especially when it concerns our family’s wellbeing, is paramount. Yet, navigating the legal intricacies of estate planning can be daunting. Estate planning is not just about wills or trusts but involves a comprehensive approach to safeguard your assets and ensure they’re passed on to your loved ones in the manner you […]


Top 5 Considerations When Naming an Executor in Your Will

Crafting a will is a vital part of future planning, as it expresses your final wishes and outlines the distribution of your assets upon your demise. However, the effectiveness of this legal document relies heavily on the person chosen to execute it—the executor or personal representative. Their role in managing your estate is critical, so […]


Estate Planning for the Child-Free

John Davis, despite having no children, realized the essential role of comprehensive estate planning in managing his diverse and complex assets, with a goal to ensure his wealth distribution as per his wishes, prevent potential disputes, and minimize taxes. With strong feelings about end-of-life care, he safeguarded his medical preferences by creating advance healthcare directives […]


My Estate Plan is Signed, Now What?

The phrase “taken care of after you’re gone” refers to the proactive planning and actions you undertake to protect, preserve, and allocate your wealth and assets after your death. This planning often involves specifying your preferences regarding the distribution of your belongings, and nominating a trusted individual or organization to oversee and implement your desires […]


Can a Beneficiary Be the Trustee of an Irrevocable Life Insurance Trust?

In the realm of estate planning, setting up an irrevocable life insurance trust (ILIT) is a popular strategy for preserving assets and providing financial security to beneficiaries after the grantor’s passing. The ILIT, a legal entity created to own and manage a life insurance policy, comes with its own set of rules and guidelines. One […]


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