Life estates without powers are a tool for Medicaid planning, probate avoidance and tax efficiency, but there are potential problems to look out for. Knowing the implications and risks of a life estate is essential in determining whether it is appropriate for your situation. What…
As we enter the giving season, there is an additional reason to be charitable. Congress enacted a special provision that allows more people to easily deduct up to $300 in donations to qualifying charities this year. Since the increase in the standard income tax deduction…
There are some situations where a “simple will” is not enough. Instead, an attorney may suggest you use a Trust, of which there are two basic categories: testamentary and inter vivos. A testamentary trust is one created by your Will, and it does not come…
There are many unknowns when planning an estate, but you can’t let the uncertainties get in the way of creating any kind of plan. Having an imperfect plan is usually better than having no plan at all.
David Bowersox, a partner with Hoffman, Comfort, Offutt, Scott, & Halstad in Westminster, was asked to comment on one’s legal rights when defending yourself in your own home. Bowersox states, in Maryland, people are generally expected to retreat and avoid the threat, unlike many other…
Dennis Twigg, a partner with Hoffman, Comfort, Offutt, Scott, & Halstad in Westminster, joined the Carroll County Chamber of Commerce to host a webinar on how to handle estate planning post COVID-19. To learn more about how to navigate estate planning, check out the webinar…
Dennis Twigg, a partner with Hoffman, Comfort, Offutt, Scott, & Halstad in Westminster, is hosting an engaging video series called “Carroll Corona Carryout.” The series follows Twigg as he chooses a local restaurant and shares a virtual meal with fellow Chamber of Commerce President Mike…
David Bowersox, a partner with Hoffman, Comfort, Offutt, Scott, & Halstad in Westminster, recently commented on the issues raised in a case involving the owner of a local farm chasing trespassers off of his property. According to Bowersox, when it comes to property law and…
First and foremost, this is a rapidly changing and unprecedented situation. Check with an attorney before relying on this being up to date. As of now, there are remote procedures available for the witnessing of wills (see Governor’s Emergency Order 20-40-10-01) and notarization (Governor’s Emergency…
Hoffman, Comfort, Offutt, Scott & Halstad, LLP and other law firms were classified as essential businesses based on Governor Hogan’s order dated March 30, 2020. Even though we can continue to work, we have taken measures internally to be responsible citizens. One area that remains…
