Recently I became aware that government mail, including mail from the Social Security Administration, does not get forwarded with a U.S. Postal Service change of address, unless you pay for a premium forwarding service. If the person who is expecting…
Category: Senior Law News
A Look at the Newly Enacted Uniform Partition of Heirs Property Act (“UPHPA”)
Property being transferred from one generation to another by intestate succession is considered “heirs’ property.” According to Virginia law, when someone who owns real property dies without an estate plan, i.e., intestate, their heirs-at-law inherit ownership interests in the real…
Will Your Memories Stand the Test of Time?
As the years go on, the times we share with friends and family live on in one of two ways – through the stories we tell from memory, and through physical records, be they books, photos, or film. Memory does,…
What is a Codicil? (And Why You Shouldn’t Do One)
Having an estate plan is important at every stage of life. Having a will makes the disposition of your assets at your death much easier for your loved ones. Even with minimal assets, a will is important. Just as critical…
Is Dad Okay? Early Signs of Dementia and What To Do If You See Them
If you are a child with aging parents, you may be watching them closely and wondering if some of their actions are signs of normal aging or if it could be something more. Here are a few signs that your…
Special Needs Planning and the Importance of Understanding Benefits
Many people who seek advice regarding a plan for a loved one with a disability believe that it centers around a trust. Unfortunately, a proper plan is not usually that simple. A comprehensive plan will also usually incorporate long-term residential…
The Importance of Making Your Legacy “Timeless”
We at Hook Law Center aim to emphasize of the importance of planning for your future. Time can bring about a plethora of uncertainties; these unplanned shifts in the course of life often burden those affected with disheartening confusion and…
NEARING RETIREMENT – IS IT BETTER TO SAVE MORE OR WORK LONGER?
When examining whether you are ready to retire, the question on your mind should inevitably be, “can I sustain my expected standard of living through my retirement years?” For many, there is a “magic” age by which we wish to…
What is the Difference Between Elder Law and Estate Planning?
Elder law and estate planning serve two different - but equally vital - functions. The main difference is that elder law is focused on preserving your assets during your lifetime, while estate planning concentrates on what happens to your assets…
