By Colin Smith | Contributor In America, the 18th birthday is special: teenagers become adults in the eyes of the law. Parents don’t have say-so any longer. We can make our own choices and be held accountable for our own mistakes. We think, ah, Freedom! We expect to receive…
By Colin Smith / Contributor What do we need to have on hand to act on our adult child’s behalf? (i.e. emergency at college or while traveling in the summer) Once a child becomes 18 years of age, he or she is legally an adult. Parents can no longer make…
By Alicia Wanek When it comes to getting kids off to college, the parents and students are usually thinking about very different ways to prepare. Your students are likely thinking about decorating their dorm rooms, getting a good schedule, sorority or fraternity rush, and finding the best places to eat…
By Colin Smith | Contributor You have a child who is finishing high school. Congratulations! Your son or daughter is now legally an adult. Your independent 18-year-old can sign binding legal documents, make health care decisions for themselves, and handle their own money – without you having any say in…
There are many layers to the “sandwich” generation, those with the honor of caring for parents at the same time most are also dedicated to children. Taking a big bite out of the opportunity – yes, the opportunity, rather than obligation – can make it an easier bite…
Answers to your important legal questions from our panel of experts Often decisions about family matters have legal consequences. Got a legal question for one of our experts, ask it here. Here, three of our most trusted attorneys offer their professional opinion on how to handle some tricky situations. Q: Our…
by Alicia Wanek A recent study showed that more than four in ten millennials are stressed about running out of money in retirement. Imagine how many seniors have the same concern! My grandmother once said if she met her Maker with a penny to her name, she would have spent…
by Colin Smith | Contributor Nobody likes the thought of planning for their own passing, but there are so many ways that the lack of a plan can negatively affect families. Some estimates say that 55% of American adults do not have a will or any type of estate…
Helping to Cover Your Long-Term Care by Alicia Wanek If you’ve ever looked into the cost of assisted-living or a long-term care facility, you know that Halloween pales in comparison. According to attorney Colin Smith, “Long term care facilities in the metroplex can cost over $6,500 per month. The…