There are many misconceptions that circulate about common-law marriage.  We are often approached by a client who states that he or she is common-law married, but upon further discussion of the requirements, finds that they may not actually be able to prove that status.   Proof is important, because common-law marriage does not carry any legal … Continue reading “Common Law Marriage in Colorado”

Ancillary Probate in Colorado Upon the death of a resident of another state who owns Colorado real estate, a Colorado ancillary probate proceeding may be necessary to transfer the property. While the Colorado Ancillary Probate process is relative straightforward, we can ensure that it is done properly, including the preparation of a Personal Representative’s Deed. … Continue reading “Colorado Ancillary Probate”

A power of attorney is an “advance directive” naming another person (your “agent”) to make decisions and act for you. We prepare separate powers of attorney for financial decisions and for medical decisions. Powers of attorney should avoid the need for a court proceeding to establish a guardianship and/or conservatorship (links to page) if you … Continue reading “Powers of Attorney”

In conjunction with your estate plan, we help you with the formal organization of your small business by drafting the necessary documents and ensuring that you are properly registered with the Colorado Secretary of State and the IRS. We guide you through the selection of the appropriate business entity, whether a Limited Liability Company (LLC), … Continue reading “Business Law”

Most simply, a trust is one person holding something for another. There are many types of trusts which range in complexity, but a revocable living trust is the most common type of trust employed in a standard estate plan. If we decide a revocable living trust is appropriate for your estate plan, we will assist … Continue reading “Trusts”

An estate plan is a roadmap that guides you and your family through major life events. It determines how you and your loved ones will be taken care of if you are incapacitated, where your property will go at your death, and who will carry out your wishes. The documents included in an estate plan … Continue reading “Estate Planning”

Elder law encompasses all aspects of planning for aging, illness, and incapacity, and death. Many of our practice areas fall under the broad umbrella of Elder Law. We pride ourselves in accommodating our elderly clients and can provide in-home meetings for your convenience when necessary. Estate Planning: Ensuring that your estate is in order is … Continue reading “Elder Law”

Probate most generally describes the legal process by which the assets of a deceased person are distributed. A probate proceeding may be needed depending on the value and nature of estate assets. We help families determine whether probate is needed and guide them through the necessary procedures. We most often assist the personal representative (or … Continue reading “Probate”

A will provides instructions for the collection, division, and distribution of your assets at death. It nominates a personal representative (or “executor”) to carry out your directions. While the proper execution of a will with witnesses and a notary is an important part of the process, the contents of the will is equally important. We … Continue reading “Wills”

If proper powers of attorney are not in place for an incapacitated person, a court proceeding may be necessary to appoint a guardian and/or conservator to make medical and financial decisions. Removing a person’s most basic decision-making rights over self and property requires a court hearing. We know the strict procedural requirements for obtaining guardianship … Continue reading “Guardianships & Conservatorships”