Selecting a trustee is one of the most important—and most misunderstood—decisions in Estate Planning. While many individuals focus on who will receive their assets and how those assets will be distributed, far fewer consider the impact the Trustee will have on the management and distribution of those assets. This article explores why trustee selection matters, common pitfalls that lead to conflict and litigation, and how thoughtful planning can help preserve both family harmony and a lasting … [Read more...] about Trustee Selection: Why It Matters and How to Get It Right
The Seedier Side of the Holidays
Scammers will use any leverage possible to separate you from your money. This includes preying upon a grandparent’s love and concern for their grandchildren. The so-called grandparent scams are among the most popular scams targeting the elderly and rely upon details gleaned from social media sites to make the call seem realistic. It’s important to recognize the signs of potential scams and understand how to guard against them. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about The Seedier Side of the Holidays
“Let’s Go Crazy” … Over Prince’s Estate
When Prince died over nine (9) years ago, he shocked his fans one last time. Turns out, his unexpected death wasn’t the last surprise. Prince died without an Estate Plan causing his siblings to spend the next six years fighting over his Estate. Continue reading to learn more. … [Read more...] about “Let’s Go Crazy” … Over Prince’s Estate
What Football and Estate Planning Have in Common
I, like many Americans, love football. As I settled in to watch my team’s game this week, I wondered if I could turn it into a blog. As I watched, I realized, in fact, football and Estate Planning share many commonalities. Continue reading to learn more. … [Read more...] about What Football and Estate Planning Have in Common
Stepping Forward: New Tools and Training to Better Serve Our Clients and Community
Litherland, Kennedy & Associates attended the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys’ Fall Summit in San Diego, California, from October 16–19, 2025. The Summit brought together leading estate planning attorneys from across the country to explore emerging legal trends, elevate practice management, and share innovative strategies for delivering exceptional client care. This year’s theme, “Reflect. Refuel. Reimagine.”, encouraged attendees to pause and evaluate current practices, … [Read more...] about Stepping Forward: New Tools and Training to Better Serve Our Clients and Community
Hulk Hogan and Disclaimers…?
When Terry Bollea, aka “Hulk Hogan,” died on July 24 at age 71 in his Clearwater, Florida home, I wondered if I’d have another celebrity estate gone awry to discuss. I found something different but equally important for Estate Planning practitioners: disclaimers. Continue reading to learn more. … [Read more...] about Hulk Hogan and Disclaimers…?
No More Cheeseburgers in Paradise
Jimmy Buffett’s brand of music inspired a way of life dedicated to relaxing. A trip to Key West, Florida embodies everything Jimmy held dear and serves as the backdrop to many of his songs. More than one city hosts a restaurant titled after his hit song, “Margaritaville.” While Buffett appeared to live a carefree lifestyle full of fun, his 2023 death alerted us that his passing left some issues unresolved. Continue reading to learn more. … [Read more...] about No More Cheeseburgers in Paradise
National Make-a-Will Month
Although many Estate Plans have a Revocable Trust as the foundation for the plan, Wills play an important role in a comprehensive Estate Plan. Alarmingly, most Americans don’t have a Will even though they know it’s important. As National Make a Will month comes to a close, let’s explore the often overlooked and neglected Estate Planning document, the Will. Continue reading to learn more. … [Read more...] about National Make-a-Will Month
Attorney Justin M. Kennedy Selected as 2025 Super Lawyer
We are proud to announce that Attorney Justin M. Kennedy has been selected to the 2025 California Super Lawyers list. This is the second year in a row that Justin has been rated as a Super Lawyer. Each year, no more than five percent of the lawyers in the state are selected by the research team at Super Lawyers to receive this honor. Super Lawyers, part of Thomson Reuters, is a rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high degree of peer … [Read more...] about Attorney Justin M. Kennedy Selected as 2025 Super Lawyer
Estate Planning Insight: Are Your Really Putting Family First?
You probably say that your family is your top priority. Most people do. You work hard to provide for them, make sacrifices for their well-being, and do everything you can to keep them safe. But if you haven’t created an estate plan, ask yourself: Are you truly putting your family first? Most adults in the U.S. don’t have a will—let alone a comprehensive estate plan. Many intend to "get around to it" someday, but life has a way of getting in the way. Unfortunately, unexpected events rarely wait … [Read more...] about Estate Planning Insight: Are Your Really Putting Family First?
