Blog Author: Tereina Stidd, J.D., LL.M. (Tax), Associate Director of Education, American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys, Inc. On December 14, 2022, President Biden signed the Respect for Marriage Act (the “Act”) repealing the Defense of Marriage Act (“DOMA”). The Act mandates that all states, United States territories and possessions, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the federal government (hereinafter “States” or “State”) must recognize as valid any … [Read more...] about What Does the Respect for Marriage Act Mean for Estate Planning?
LGBTQ+ Estate Planning Frequently Asked Questions (VIDEO)
In this video, Attorney Maggie A. LaBranch-Gonzales answers LGBTQ+ frequently asked estate planning questions. … [Read more...] about LGBTQ+ Estate Planning Frequently Asked Questions (VIDEO)
GLBT Couples Must Have An Estate Plan
If you are involved in a long-term committed relationship and you are not legally married, estate planning is especially important for you. If you are involved in a same-sex relationship, unless you live in (or travel to) one of the handful of states that recognize same-sex unions, the choice to get legally married is really not available to you. So, for GLBT couples the execution of the appropriate legal documents is the only way that you can make sure that your partner has certain rights that … [Read more...] about GLBT Couples Must Have An Estate Plan
Estate Planning For Gay Couples
The issue of gay marriage legality is a hot topic in the United States these days. People are passionate about it from both directions, and of course it has been a subject that has been hotly debated here in California for years. Marriage affords certain legal rights, and this is one of the primary reasons why people who are involved in long-term, committed same-sex relationships are so concerned about their unions being recognized by the powers that be. This is understandable, but there are … [Read more...] about Estate Planning For Gay Couples
Advance Planning Is Essential For Unmarried Domestic Partners
Estate planning is one of the basic fundamental responsibilities that you have to take care of once you become a responsible, self-supporting adult. If you go through life without asserting your wishes, you are shirking one of your responsibilities. This is true even if you are a relatively young adult. The above being stated, perhaps estate planning is a bit more important for some people than it is for others. For example, if you are legally married and you happen to pass away unexpectedly … [Read more...] about Advance Planning Is Essential For Unmarried Domestic Partners