Blog
Can My In-Law Be My Executor?
When someone is drafting their estate planning documents, he or she is tasked with naming an executor – the person responsible for managing their estate after they pass away. While many people choose their spouse, their children, or even a best friend, others look to...
Charitable Contributions Under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, an overhaul of the US tax code, took effect at the beginning of 2018 but continues to impact charitable bequests and contributions. The Act did not altogether eliminate charitable giving exemptions; however, it did alter the rules associated...
Resources for Finding In-Home Caregivers
The holiday season is right around the corner. Overthe next few weeks, many of us will be spending even more quality time with our friends, loved ones, and family. During these festive get-togethers, you might notice that your parent or a relative is behaving...
Is Your Estate Plan a Trick or a Treat?
From all of us here at Brian M. Douglas & Associates, we want to wish you and your family a happy and safe Halloween! Around the office, Halloween is one of our favorite holidays. We get excited to share in the festivities both in the office and at home with our...
A Different Kind of Commitment: Using Your Estate Plan to Provide for Your Partner (Even if You’re Not Married!)
In today’s world, there are all kinds of reasons why a committed couple may decide not to get married. Maybe you have been married before, and it’s not a ritual you are eager to repeat. Maybe you and your partner have been together for years, and it’s just something...
Are You Expecting? Get Estate Planning Out of the Way NOW
You’ve read the books. You’ve taken the classes. You have met with the doctor and secured a great spot in childcare. So, are you totally ready for your new baby’s arrival? Of course, it’s impossible to be 100% prepared. Especially with an infant, surprises are sure to...
Probate vs. Non-Probate Assets in Georgia: 4 Things You Need to Know
What’s better, probate or nonprobate assets? In the context of avoiding probate, it would seem non-probate assets would be. You see, with non-probate assets, your heirs don't have to worry about the probate process. These assets will pass directly to them as soon as...
Is it True that “Nothing’s Changed” Since You Last Updated Your Estate Plan?
As a responsible parent, business owner, homeowner, or caregiver, you wrote a will. You have a Power of Attorney. You even have a complete Advance Medical Directive. So, you’re done, right? Sure, those documents were completed fifteen years ago, but nothing’s really...
Probate A-Z: Your Guide to Common Georgia Probate Definitions and Terms
Did you know that only 40% of Americans have a will, and even with a will probate may still be a necessity. Navigating through the probate process can be a challenge, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the terminology. Are you going through probate? We're here to...
A Trust Could Protect and Preserve Your Home
If you own a home in the State of Georgia, you know that homeownership comes with a lot of responsibility. During any given year, there are dozens (if not hundreds) of small and large decisions that you make to protect and preserve your home. From changing air filters...
Do You Need an Estate Plan if You are Single?
There is a common misconception that you don’t actually need an estate plan if you are unmarried or don’t have children. At Brian M. Douglas & Associates, we aren’t too sure where this idea could have come from. Estate planning is important whether or not you have...
What Laws are in Place to Protect Good Samaritans who Help During a Natural Disaster?
In recent years, we have seen an increase in the number and severity of natural disasters hitting the State of Georgia. As storms become more intense, so does the impact on Georgians. In the face of disaster, it is natural that our communities come together and...