Probate can be a daunting process that many people seek to avoid. Here in Wisconsin, there are several good reasons to steer clear of probate when planning your estate. Let's explore five key reasons why you should consider avoiding probate. 1. Probate is...
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Are will readings necessary?
Gathering a family together to read a will may be a thing of the past, but that does not mean that loved ones in Wisconsin do not have access to a family member's will. Currently, no state has a law that requires the reading of a will to the family, though in some...
Divorce and Social Security benefits from an ex-spouse
There are several myths and misunderstandings surrounding drawing Social Security benefits from an ex-spouse's earnings record after divorce. For example, some people may think that drawing these benefits will reduce the benefits that will be available to the...
FAMILY LAW IN THE TIME OF CORONAVIRUS
**This article was originally posted on the State Bar of Wisconsin Inside Track web page on April 8, 2020** Family law has always been challenging, but now we get to practice it either from home, from work with a reduced staff or under other challenging conditions....
HOW TO CHOOSE A FAMILY LAW PROCESS: Traditional, Collaborative, Cooperative, or Mediation?
**This blog was originally posted on the State Bar of Wisconsin Family Law Section web page** Unlike in years past, clients now have many choices for how to handle a family law matter. Should they use the traditional, adversarial method, engage in collaborative or...
Paternity – Family Law is More Than Divorce
What is Paternity? Paternity actions are brought when a child is born to parents who are not married. If the mother and/or the child are on Badgercare or other state-funded programs, the county in which they reside will often bring a paternity action against the...
What is Probate?
Probate is a legal process through which an individual's estate is administered after that individual passes away. Generally, the probate process is supervised by the Court. The probate process is designed to ensure that debts of the decedent are paid and that any...
Family Law Workshop 2018
Attorneys Margaret Hickey, Emily Hall, and Lauren Otte attended the 37th Annual Family Law Workshop in Door County at the beginning of August. The three day Workshop in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin included both educational and networking events. Attorney Margaret Hickey...
Power of Attorney and Will: Do I Need Both?
One of the most common questions clients have is what is the difference between a financial Power of Attorney and a Last Will and Testament, and why do I need both. Both documents can be vital parts of an estate plan, as they serve separate purposes, so it is...
What will happen to my assets in a divorce?
You and your spouse are splitting up, and you are preparing for the divorce. Going through a divorce can be very complex, and there are many legal details that you will have to confront. As you learn about the process, you are encountering questions that never even...