Many people put off writing a will, thinking they have plenty of time. But if you die without one, Colorado law decides what happens to your estate. This situation is called dying "intestate," and state rules dictate how your assets get divided. How intestacy laws...
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Estate Planning
Can pets inherit under Colorado estate law?
Many people regard pets as family members, yet state law does not grant them the legal status of human heirs. This distinction, however, does not preclude owners from making legally enforceable arrangements to safeguard a pet’s well-being after death. Thoughtful...
How do executors get paid for their services?
There is more to being an estate executor than just distributing assets as specified in the will. The role comes with significant responsibilities, from managing debts and tracking down financial documents to filing court paperwork and handling taxes. With all that on...
Should you choose grandparents as a child’s guardian?
One qualification you’re looking for when choosing a guardian for your child is that the person is willing to take on that role and already has a loving relationship with your child. This often makes grandparents feel like the ideal choice. They enjoy spending time...
Trusts are an important part of estate plans
Your estate plan serves many purposes, one of which is to ensure your assets are distributed in the manner you choose to the people you intend. You have the option of doing this through a will, which has to go through the probate process. Another option, trusts, can...
How does Colorado law treat digital wills?
Creating a will in Colorado has become more accessible thanks to the Colorado Uniform Electronic Wills Act (CUEWA), enacted in 2021. This law lets you draft, sign, and store your will electronically, offering a modern alternative to paper documents. Requirements for a...
What are the benefits of creating a living will?
Planning for the future includes making decisions about your healthcare in case you become unable to communicate your wishes. A living will provides clarity and peace of mind for you and your loved ones. In Colorado, this legal document ensures that medical...
What is the role of a healthcare proxy in estate planning?
Estate planning goes beyond managing assets—it also involves making decisions about your future healthcare. A healthcare proxy ensures your medical wishes are followed if you cannot communicate them yourself. This role carries legal authority to make medical choices...
How can a charitable remainder trust benefit your estate plan?
Including a charitable remainder trust (CRT) in your estate plan provides significant benefits for you, your beneficiaries, and charitable organizations. CRTs help combine philanthropy with financial planning, offering advantages that enhance both your legacy and...
Should you include long-term care planning in your estate plan?
Long-term care planning addresses the potential need for assistance with daily activities as you age. Including this planning in your estate plan ensures your preferences are honored while protecting your financial future. Deciding whether to incorporate long-term...

