In May 2025, several important updates reshaped how families and trustees can manage Special Needs Trusts (SNTs). These changes not only improve flexibility for beneficiaries but also open new opportunities for strategic estate and retirement planning. For those working with a special needs planning lawyer, staying informed about these developments is important to confirm that […]

In January 2025, Senator Anthony Palumbo introduced Karilyn’s Law in New York as a response to troubling reports of guardianship abuse. The proposal focuses on safeguarding visitation rights for individuals under guardianship, making certain that neither guardians nor care managers can arbitrarily prevent family members from visiting their loved ones. If visitation is denied, the

Connecticut’s elder protection framework is under fresh scrutiny following a recent state audit of the Department of Social Services (DSS). The review revealed that while 85% of prior recommendations aimed at combating elder abuse have been implemented, significant gaps remain. Persistent staffing shortages, constrained resources, and a lack of volunteer support are limiting the state’s

The first quarter of 2025 has brought a record-breaking shift in corporate leadership. According to industry data, 646 CEOs left their positions during this period, raising the turnover rate to 14.8%—well above the historical average of 11.3%. For many organizations, this surge underscores the urgent need for a proactive approach to leadership transitions. A business

The federal tax landscape for charitable donations has shifted in 2025 with the introduction of a new private-school voucher tax credit. This provision, part of a sweeping tax reform package, offers an uncapped, dollar-for-dollar credit for donations to private school voucher programs through Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs). A charitable giving lawyer may help donors manage

Asset protection trusts have gained attention in 2025 as more individuals and business owners seek strategies to safeguard wealth from lawsuits, creditors, and unforeseen liabilities. Yet, even with the best intentions, costly mistakes can undermine these efforts. According to recent insights, two major errors stand out this year: selecting a weaker jurisdiction instead of a

On July 1, 2025, Washington State officially increased its estate tax exemption from $2.193 million to $3 million. Along with this adjustment, higher tax brackets now peak at 35%, and the exemption is indexed for inflation going forward. For individuals and families managing wealth transfer strategies, this shift offers both relief and new considerations. Working

Michigan is making it easier for older adults to take charge of their legal and financial future. Just last week, the Michigan Attorney General’s Office, in partnership with its Elder Abuse Task Force, released free, downloadable Power of Attorney (POA) forms to help seniors formally appoint someone to handle healthcare and financial matters if they

Florida’s recent legislative change under Senate Bill 262 has introduced significant updates to the Florida Trust Code (§736.04117). Enacted on June 20, 2025, this amendment allows “authorized trustees” to decant assets into a new trust, even one created solely for that purpose, without requiring court approval in certain circumstances. For individuals working with a trusts

California is preparing to implement a major change to its probate process, one that could ease the burden for thousands of families. Beginning April 1, 2025, Assembly Bill 2016 (AB 2016) will introduce simplified procedures for certain estates, reducing time, cost, and potential complications. This shift is especially relevant for anyone working with a wills