Whether you’re planning your own estate or settling a loved one’s, it’s important to understand how probate works. At Phelps LaClair, we help Arizona families design successful estate plans and smoothly administer their loved ones’ estates. We put together this guide to formal vs. informal...
Congratulations on setting an appointment to meet with an estate planning attorney! That is an important first step in setting up your estate plan. If this is your first time speaking with an advisor, chances are good you have questions on what to bring to...
There’s no way to deny the fact that summertime is hot here in Phoenix. Thankfully, there are lots of great places to chill out when the temperature heats up. Here’s a look at some of the best places to cool off in Phoenix and nearby,...
Creating a revocable living trust is a crucial step in estate planning. The trust allows you to protect your assets from probate after your death, while still allowing you to access and manage them during your lifetime. However, understanding what happens to a revocable trust...
If someone has chosen you to administer their estate after they’re gone, it’s normal to feel a little overwhelmed. Being the personal representative of an estate comes with many responsibilities. Luckily, the experienced team at Phelps LaClair is here to help you feel more at...
Did you know that June is national fresh fruits and vegetables month? Visiting your local farmers market is the perfect way to celebrate. In Arizona, farmers can harvest produce all year round, so you’re sure to find everything you need for your favorite seasonal recipes....
Probate is the legal process of validating a will, settling a deceased person's debts, and distributing their assets to heirs or beneficiaries. The court oversees this process to ensure that is properly carried out. Probate can take over a year and involves expensive court fees...
Hopefully, you’ve already created an estate plan that benefits your spouse or partner as well as any children and grandchildren in your family. But there are some other important family members you may have forgotten to consider when estate planning—your pets. Planning ahead for your...
Although Arizona doesn’t have an estate tax, the federal government does. Arizona doesn’t impose an inheritance tax either, but you could still have to pay taxes on inheritance that comes from another state. At Phelps LaClair, we understand that estate and inheritance tax laws and...
As we age, our medical needs change. That is just a part of life. And depending on your personal medical history, you may want to plan for an event where, if you cannot communicate directly with doctors and nurses, you have someone who knows your...