What would happen if you could no longer make your own medical decisions? An accident, sudden illness, surgery complication, or loss of mental capacity can happen at any age. If you cannot communicate your wishes, your loved ones may be forced to make difficult decisions without clear guidance. That is why a health care power of attorney is one of the most important documents in a complete estate plan. A health care power of attorney allows you to name someone you trust to make medical … [Read more...] about Why Every Adult Needs a Health Care Power of Attorney
Secure Your Future: Why Estate Planning Should Still Be at the Top of Your Resolution List
By February, many New Year’s resolutions have already started to fade. Gym visits slow down. Budget goals get postponed. Life gets busy again. But there is one resolution that is too important to delay: creating or updating your estate plan. While many people focus on health or financial goals at the start of the year, few consider what may be the most consequential decision of all. A thoughtful estate plan protects your finances, your healthcare decisions, and the people you love … [Read more...] about Secure Your Future: Why Estate Planning Should Still Be at the Top of Your Resolution List
No Time Like the Present: Show Your Love by Making an Estate Plan
Making an estate plan is one of the most meaningful ways to show your love and care for your family — yet many Americans continue to put it off. A 2025 survey found that only about one in three adults have an estate plan — continuing a downward trend seen in recent years. National Estate Planning Awareness Week is observed during the third full week of October each year, and now is the perfect time to reflect on your own plans and ensure your wishes are clearly documented and … [Read more...] about No Time Like the Present: Show Your Love by Making an Estate Plan
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?
Planning for Incapacity: A Crucial Component of Your Estate Plan
The Reality of Aging and Incapacity Planning As you transition into middle age, you may begin to notice changes in your physical capabilities. While this is a natural part of aging, most individuals in this stage can still manage their daily needs independently. However, it can be difficult to envision a time when assistance with basic tasks may become necessary. Longevity statistics emphasize the importance of preparing for this possibility through a well-thought-out incapacity planning … [Read more...] about Planning for Incapacity: A Crucial Component of Your Estate Plan
Estate Planning 101: Navigating Your Future With Confidence
Estate planning, a crucial aspect of financial management, involves preparing for management of your assets should you become incapacitated and the transfer of assets after death. It is a process that ensures your hard-earned assets are overseen when you are unable to do so and distributed according to your wishes, potentially reducing legal complications, and minimizing taxes for your beneficiaries. The Importance of Estate Planning No matter the size of your estate, planning is essential. It … [Read more...] about Estate Planning 101: Navigating Your Future With Confidence
Five Tips for Planning Your Estate Effectively
A lot of people without estate plans do not take action because they don’t know where to begin. With this in mind, let’s look at five tips that should provide some insight and motivation. Focus on Your Family Estate planning can seem like a somber responsibility that is easy to put off, and the years of inaction can start to add up. You may know that you should put a plan in place, but it is easy to convince yourself that there is time to do it later. Indeed, you may live a long and full … [Read more...] about Five Tips for Planning Your Estate Effectively
2023 Community Shred Day to Benefit the Alzheimer’s Association
Thank you to everyone who participated in our Community Shred Day to benefit the Alzheimer's Association. Together we raised more than $3,400 to help the Alzheimer's Association provide 24/7 care and support and advance research toward methods of prevention, treatment and, ultimately, a cure. #ALZ #LitherlandKennedy #ENDALZ #Walk2EndAlz Join our Walk to End Alzheimer's Team here: http://act.alz.org/goto/LitherlandKennedy. … [Read more...] about 2023 Community Shred Day to Benefit the Alzheimer’s Association
What Bruce Willis Can Teach Us About Incapacity Planning
Blog Author: Tereina Stidd, J.D., LL.M. (Tax), Associate Director of Education, American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys, Inc. America’s favorite tough guy, Bruce Willis, recently received a diagnosis of Frontotemporal Dementia or FTD which destroys the brain’s frontal or temporal lobes. The condition strikes individuals between ages 45 and 64 and is the most common form of dementia for those under 60. His diagnosis brings into sharp focus the importance of planning for incapacity. … [Read more...] about What Bruce Willis Can Teach Us About Incapacity Planning
Establishing Health Care Documents for Young Adults – A Mock Interview (VIDEO)
In this Vlog, Attorney Justin M. Kennedy conducts a mock interview with young adult Lauren regarding establishing important estate planning documents for health care. … [Read more...] about Establishing Health Care Documents for Young Adults – A Mock Interview (VIDEO)
