Shannen Doherty spent years fighting breast cancer with courage and candor. In her final days, she also fought to finalize her divorce – signing the settlement just one day before she died. More than a year later, her estate is still fighting to enforce it. Shannen’s … [Read more...] about Still Fighting: The Estate Planning Legacy of Shannen Doherty
Legal Education
When Estate Planning Documents Say One Thing—and Mean Another
Two recent conversations at Summit, one about blended family planning and one about trust language, highlight a challenge that shows up more often than attorneys might expect: clients and even attorneys sometimes read estate planning documents more literally than the … [Read more...] about When Estate Planning Documents Say One Thing—and Mean Another
Spring Summit 2026: Laissez Les Bons Temps Rouler
The best Estate Planners stay current on the latest trends. The American Academy of Estate Planning held its semi-annual conference providing education and learning for and inspiring excellence in its Members. Continue reading to learn more about the unique experience … [Read more...] about Spring Summit 2026: Laissez Les Bons Temps Rouler
That Would Never Happen: The Most Dangerous Words in Estate Planning
One of the most common—and dangerous—phrases in Estate Planning is “that would never happen.” This article explores how assumptions about family dynamics, relationships, and behavior often lead to unintended conflict, litigation, and failed plans. By examining where … [Read more...] about That Would Never Happen: The Most Dangerous Words in Estate Planning
IRS Warning: The 2026 Dirty Dozen Tax Scams
As we approach the end of another tax season, it’s a good time to review the list of “Dirty Dozen” tax schemes published by the Internal Revenue Service for the year. Many of these schemes peak during tax time and involve fraudsters looking for ways to steal taxpayers’ … [Read more...] about IRS Warning: The 2026 Dirty Dozen Tax Scams
When Estate Planning Fails: Family Infighting and the $10 Billion Lakers Sale
The recent $10 billion sale of the Los Angeles Lakers provides a powerful cautionary tale about Estate Planning, family conflict, and business succession. Despite a sophisticated Trust designed to keep ownership in the Buss family, structural flaws and sibling rivalries … [Read more...] about When Estate Planning Fails: Family Infighting and the $10 Billion Lakers Sale