Category Archives: Probate
A Special Message from The Crosthwait Law Firm
To our valued clients, partners, and friends: We at The Crosthwait Law Firm are aware of and understand the significant challenges faced by all of us from the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Our first priority is for the safety of our clients and our staff, as well as continuing to serve your legal needs…. Read More »
What to do After the Death of a Loved One
Losing a loved one can be a difficult experience. Despite the emotional trauma involved, you may also be responsible for handling a variety of financial, legal, and administrative tasks. You may find yourself unsure of where to begin and what to do. However, do not be hasty when settling your loved one’s estate. Important decisions… Read More »
Basics of Estate Planning – Part Two
Goals of Estate Planning Here are four goals for every estate plan: Every estate plan should increase and preserve your property during your lifetime. This includes managing liquidity, building or increasing retirement benefits, and minimizing tax burdens. Every estate plan should provide for your beneficiaries after your death, with provisions tailored to each beneficiary’s specific… Read More »
Basics of Estate Planning – Part One
Putting together your estate plan is not as daunting as it might first seem, and it pays big dividends in the long run. Do you really want a judge deciding who will be the guardian of your children, or the State of Oklahoma dictating who will receive your property after your death? Chances are you… Read More »
Planning For Your Children
If you are a parent of a young child or children, having an estate plan in place is more important than ever. No one knows your child better than you do, and a proper estate plan should provide for his or her care and maintenance, ensuring that he or she will be properly cared for… Read More »
What happens when you die without a will?
Without a will or trust you have no say in the disposition of your own assets in the event of your death. Your assets will pass pursuant to Oklahoma intestacy laws and could even escheat (or revert) to the State. It is important to recognize that if you die intestate, i.e., without a will, your… Read More »
Small Estate Affidavits in Oklahoma
Effective November 1, 2017, the limit for Small Estate Affidavits increased from $20,000.00 to $50,000.00. This is a considerable plus for the distribution of small estates as it can avoid the necessity of a costly probate. In Oklahoma, there are two (2) types of Small Estate Affidavits. The first, authorized by 58 O.S. § 393,… Read More »
Estate Planning and the Special Needs Trust
A Special Needs Trust is a specific trust which ensures that a beneficiary remains eligible for Supplemental Security Income, Medicaid, and other government benefits. It also provides for distributions for medical care not covered by Medicaid as well as other enhancements to the beneficiary’s quality of life. Your will should provide your Personal Representative the… Read More »
What to Do When You Lose Your Spouse
Losing your spouse is never easy. Here are some things to remember once you are ready to move forward: Obtain. You should obtain multiple certified copies of the Death Certificate when it becomes available. You are going to need one for every life insurance policy, and many of the institutions holding assets will require one as well…. Read More »