Thanksgiving has a way of reminding us who our real  family is. Sometimes it’s the relatives we grew up with… but just as often, it’s the people sitting around the Friendsgiving table — the ones who bring a dish, stay to clean up, check on you when you’re stressed, and make you feel seen. As gatherings become more inclusive and friendships become lifelines, the idea of “family” has shifted. For millennials, Gen Z, LGBTQ+ individuals, single adults, transplants living states a

For many families, the business isn’t just a source of income — it’s part of the family’s identity. Maybe it’s the bakery your parents opened 40 years ago, the small construction company that’s helped build your community, or the dental practice you’ve grown from the ground up. Whatever your story, your business represents years of work, sacrifice, and pride. That’s why estate planning for a family business looks a little different. It’s not just about dividing assets — it’s

Families today don’t fit into one mold — and that’s something to celebrate. From blended families and stepchildren to same-sex couples, adoptive parents, and lifelong partners who never married, love builds families in countless ways. But when it comes to estate planning, modern family dynamics can create unexpected challenges. The law doesn’t always reflect the emotional bonds that make up your family. Without a plan in place, those you consider “yours” may not be protected

What the heck is  probate, anyway?  Probate is the legal process that happens after someone passes away — it’s how the court makes sure debts are paid and assets are distributed correctly. Sounds simple, right? Not always. Probate can take months (sometimes years), involve court fees, and become public record — meaning anyone can see who got what. It’s basically the long, official way to settle an estate… and it’s exactly why so many people plan ahead to avoid  it. Losing a l