  Welcome to that time of year when the weather is getting warmer and the sunshine seems even brighter. So now we’re in the mood to celebrate National Humor Month, also known as April. The combination of humor and laughter helps people relax, lowers their blood pressure, strengthens their immune system, and just generally makes everyone feel better. Celebrate this month by telling jokes or talking about a funny memories.
With all the energy you’re feeling from laughing and enjoying the sunshine, take a moment to contact me to create or update your estate plan or talk to me about that elder law issue that you’ve been thinking about. Get these items off your plate before summer. Call me today at 617.299.6976 or send an email to mkarr@maheritagelawcenter.com to set up your free consultation meeting with me.
And don’t forget to enjoy National Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day on April 12. It wasn’t until the 1960s that the grilled cheese, as we know it today, emerged when the second slice of bread became a standard part of the sandwich. So pick a cheese and pick a type of bread, and make yourself one of the top comfort foods in the U.S. I think I'll go with a traditional American cheese, whole wheat combo.
All my best and happy April! 
|
|
|
QUESTION: My husband and I take care of our 12-year-old son who has autism.  A friend of mine who also has a special needs child, mentioned that I should consider creating some kind of trust for him. What kind of trust do we need?
ANSWER: A special needs trust, also known as a “supplemental needs trust,” can be established on behalf of a person who is mentally or physically incapacitated. It preserves both the public benefits that person receives and any additional inherited or awarded assets. There are two types of these trusts: third-party trusts are established by a parent or loved one for the benefit of a special needs child; self-settled trusts are created with the child’s own assets, often an inheritance or settlement.
On the Blog: 6 Characteristics to Look for in a Health Care Agent
A health care proxy, also known as a “health care surrogate” or “medical power of attorney,” allows you to designate another person, known as an agent or proxy, to legally make health care decisions for you if you can’t do so yourself. Read More.
Estate Plans of the Rich and Famous
Bobby Fisher
Bobby Fisher was recognized as being one of the greatest chess players of all time. He died in Iceland from kidney disease on January 17, 2008, at the age of 64.
He had started playing chess at a very young age and in July 1956, he won the U.S. Junior Chess Championship becoming the youngest-ever Junior champion at the age of 13.
Fisher left no will, which started a battle over his estate by his wife, Miyoko Watai, Marilyn Young who claimed he had fathered her daughter, and his two estranged nephews. His estate was estimated to be worth $2 million. Watai claimed to have married Fisher in 2004 in Japan. After they wed, she remained in Japan while he moved to Iceland. She did visit him in Iceland throughout the years. DNA determined that Bobby was not the father of Young’s child. In 2011, an Icelandic court ruled that Bobby’s wife, Watai, was the sole heir to his estate.
The lesson of the story: if you don’t want your loved ones to fight over your estate, create a proper estate plan and direct your assets to the beneficiaries you want.
|
|
|
|
Schedule an Initial Consultation Today.
Your initial consultation is always complimentary with no obligation. Take action today to secure your financial legacy.
|
|
|
|
Referrals
We're honored to receive referrals of your family, friends, and clients.
If you have worked with us and are pleased with our firm, please share your experience online. Use the link below for easy access.
|
|
|
|
|
