A growing number of financial institutions are finding themselves named in lawsuits tied to elder financial abuse, and the implications go far beyond reputational damage. In recent months, several major banks and wealth advisory firms have been accused of ignoring red flags that allowed caregivers, family members, and even internal staff to exploit aging account […]

A recent UBS survey revealed a striking trend: 53% of ultra-wealthy families in the U.S. now have a will or estate plan—an increase from 47% the previous year. With an estimated $124 trillion expected to transfer generationally through 2048, this uptick signals more than just a shift in priorities. It reflects a growing urgency among

As charitable organizations review their long-term giving strategies for 2025 and beyond, a proposed tax bill from the GOP is drawing intense attention across the nonprofit and legal sectors. The bill introduces sweeping changes that could directly affect foundations, donors, and advisors alike. For any charitable giving lawyer working with philanthropic institutions, understanding these potential

As of January 1, 2025, California’s Assembly Bill 2837 officially went into effect, bringing notable changes to how retirement plans are treated under state law. Specifically targeting Private Retirement Plans (PRPs) and Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs), the bill imposes tighter reporting rules and greater scrutiny on contributions made in the shadow of litigation. For business

In early 2025, a renewed proposal to eliminate the federal estate tax, formally titled The Death Tax Repeal Act of 2025, was introduced in Congress. While similar repeal efforts have been attempted over the past two decades, this iteration has gained new traction amid shifting political priorities. For any estate tax planning lawyer advising high-net-worth

In March 2025, Louisiana voters struck down a proposed constitutional amendment that would have broadened the Louisiana Supreme Court’s authority to discipline attorneys, especially those from out of state. This vote came amid concerns about attorney misconduct and regulatory gaps during emergency legal efforts—issues relevant to any power of attorney lawyer working across jurisdictions. While

Estate planning may be rooted in tradition, but today’s trust professionals are facing a wave of change, driven not by new laws but by new technology. Artificial intelligence is no longer just a buzzword; it’s becoming part of daily operations in trust administration. For any trusts lawyer working alongside corporate trustees or financial teams, understanding

Can a last will filmed on your phone really hold up in court? That’s the question the Montana Supreme Court faced when a video recording was presented as a person’s final wishes. Their answer? A firm no. The court’s decision reinforces the enduring power of traditional legal formalities and raises serious questions for any wills

Guardianship is meant to protect those who cannot care for themselves, offering oversight for individuals’ health and financial decisions. However, recent investigations into several New York guardianship organizations have revealed serious abuses and neglect, leaving some of the state’s most vulnerable residents at risk. The findings of the investigation by Attorney General Letitia James have

In January 2022, Washington state implemented a new adult guardianship law, introducing significant changes for families managing the care of vulnerable adults. These updates aim to modernize guardianship practices and provide alternatives that better respect individual rights. While these reforms are designed to enhance protections, they bring new responsibilities for guardians and families alike. At