Dittrich Law Firm, P.A.Dittrich Law Firm, P.A.2023-08-18T15:50:47Zhttps://www.dittrichlawoffice.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1503720/2023/08/cropped-favicon-dittrich-1-32x32.jpgOn Behalf of Dittrich Law Firm, P.A.https://www.dittrichlawoffice.com/?p=505272023-08-04T15:38:28Z2023-08-04T15:38:28ZLong-term financial planning
As part of your estate plan, you should take steps to secure your financial future. This includes identifying potential sources of income in your retirement years, such as Social Security, pensions and retirement accounts. Also, consider the possible need for long-term care, which can be expensive. Long-term care insurance might be an option to help cover these costs.
Long-term healthcare planning
In addition to financial considerations, long-term planning involves making decisions about your healthcare needs as you age, including end-of-life care. Two essential documents for this aspect of long-term planning are a healthcare directive and a durable power of attorney for healthcare.
The healthcare directive specifies what kind of medical treatment you want or do not want if you cannot communicate your wishes yourself. The durable power of attorney for healthcare designates a trusted person to make healthcare decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated.
Reviewing and updating your plan
Your long-term planning is not a one-time event. You should review your plan regularly and make necessary updates to reflect changes in your circumstances, such as a significant change in your health or financial situation.
Long-term planning allows you to have control over your future, guiding others to help meet your personal, financial and healthcare needs according to your wishes. By taking the time to plan now, you are taking an essential step toward protecting yourself and your loved ones in the future.]]>On Behalf of Dittrich Law Firm, P.A.https://www.dittrichlawoffice.com/?p=505082023-07-21T19:37:06Z2023-07-21T19:37:06ZThe penalties for denied parenting time
The Office of the Revisor of Statutes covers some of the penalties that parents can face for parenting time violations in this state. For example, the court could award additional parenting time to the parent whose rights became violated, fine the party who violated the order and require them to pay legal costs incurred by the other parent.
In some instances, parenting time violations can even lead to contempt of court charges and prompt the court to reverse a custody decision.
Parenting time and your rights
It is pivotal to have a thorough understanding of your rights if your child's other parent is threatening your ability to spend time with your child in accordance with a court order. You should review your unique circumstances since every case is different. For example, if you owe back child support, this does not give the other party the right to interfere with parenting time.
If you continue to face denied parenting time, make sure you address this serious problem immediately.]]>On Behalf of Dittrich Law Firm, P.A.https://www.dittrichlawoffice.com/?p=505072023-07-06T20:11:21Z2023-07-06T20:11:21ZUnpaid child support and federal tax refunds
According to the Minnesota Department of Human Services, the child support office sometimes intercepts a non-custodial parent's federal tax refund to collect child support arrears. If you owe over one month's worth of child support arrears and more than $500 in arrears to your child's custodial parent or $150 to the state, the state could take arrears out of your tax refund.
If the state decides to take arrears out of your federal tax refund, you will receive a notice from them.
Dealing with back child support and tax refund issues
If you face a partial or total loss of your tax refund, you should try to prepare from a financial viewpoint. Also, you can request a review by filing a claim with the Department of Treasury. In addition, it is very important to address back child support as soon as possible to avoid losing your federal tax refund and other serious penalties.]]>On Behalf of Dittrich Law Firm, P.A.https://www.dittrichlawoffice.com/?p=505062023-07-01T04:30:54Z2023-07-01T04:30:54ZDisorganized and bad with deadlines
According to Kiplinger, since an executor needs to work with the courts and submit important documents related to the deceased's debts, this role needs someone who is good with deadlines. If your choice of executor constantly misses deadlines in other areas of their life or fails to turn in important papers when needed, then this may not work out well for them.
Unable to end or avoid arguments
Not only do executors need to deal with debt, but they also have to talk to beneficiaries about sensitive subjects. Since beneficiaries may fight among themselves, an executor needs to know how to stop this kind of arguing and control the situation. If your choice of executor tends to get angry or has no way to calm down others when it comes to arguments, this arrangement may not work out.
Talking directly with your potential choices about what kind of temperament and skills they need can help. Being able to write a will with an executor you trust is a great goal to have.]]>On Behalf of Dittrich Law Firm, P.A.https://www.dittrichlawoffice.com/?p=505042023-06-23T18:09:25Z2023-06-23T18:09:25ZReasons for amending your prenuptial agreement
There are many reasons why you might want to amend your prenuptial agreement after getting married. Maybe your financial circumstances have dramatically changed, either through inheritance, career progression or business growth. Perhaps you and your spouse now have children, and you want to ensure their future security.
Amendments can also come into play if you or your spouse incurred significant debts after marriage. You may need to protect your assets or shield yourself from liability. Therefore, keeping your prenuptial agreement up-to-date with life changes is an important consideration.
How to amend your prenuptial agreement in Minnesota
Amending a prenuptial agreement in Minnesota involves creating a document known as a postnuptial agreement. A postnuptial is similar to a prenuptial, except it happens after a couple gets married.
Just like a prenuptial agreement, a postnuptial agreement needs to be in writing, signed by both parties and notarized. Also, the agreement should be fair and not heavily favor one party over the other. Both parties should fully disclose their assets, debts, and income.
The importance of mutual agreement
Remember, for any changes to your prenuptial agreement to take effect, you and your spouse must mutually agree on them. Open and honest communication is key here. Discuss your motivations for wanting to amend the agreement and be open to your spouse's input.
Revisiting your prenuptial agreement can not only protect your interests but also reinforce your partnership's strength in navigating life's changes together.]]>On Behalf of Dittrich Law Firm, P.A.https://www.dittrichlawoffice.com/?p=505032023-06-15T21:20:44Z2023-06-15T21:20:44ZThe parents are unable or unfit to provide care
This may be due to a variety of factors, such as substance abuse, mental health issues, incarceration, neglect or abuse. If the parents' actions or circumstances jeopardize the safety or well-being of the children, it may be necessary to step in and seek custody.
The children are at risk of harm
If you genuinely believe that your grandchildren are in immediate danger or facing significant harm, it is essential to take swift action to protect them.
The children need a stable and supportive environment
In some cases, seeking custody may be appropriate even if the parents are not necessarily unfit or the children are not in immediate danger. For instance, if the children are facing instability, frequent relocations, or lack a stable and supportive environment, seeking custody can provide the stability and consistency they need for their well-being and development.
You have established a significant parental relationship
Minnesota recognizes the importance of the grandparent-grandchild relationship and acknowledges that grandparents can play a significant role in their grandchildren's lives. If you have established a significant parental relationship with your grandchildren, seeking custody may be appropriate for continuing that relationship.
Seeking custody is in the best interest of the children
Ultimately, the primary consideration in seeking custody of your grandchildren in Minnesota is the best interest of the children. The court will evaluate various factors, including the children's physical and emotional well-being, the existing relationship between the children and their parents, the grandparents' ability to provide a safe and stable environment. If they are old enough, courts may also take into account the children's preferences.
If you believe that seeking custody of your grandchildren is necessary, it is important to quickly determine the next legal steps for you and your grandchildren.]]>On Behalf of Dittrich Law Firm, P.A.https://www.dittrichlawoffice.com/?p=505022023-05-24T00:59:19Z2023-05-24T00:59:19Zwill is a legal document that allows you to choose how to distribute your property after your death, overriding the state’s default plan for the distribution of your assets. While making a will can help you profess your wishes for your property, there are certain things you should not include in this legal document.
Requests for your funeral
You will want to let your loved ones know about your wishes for your funeral, but you should not include these directions in your will. In many cases, an executor will not review a will until after a funeral is already over. Instead, tell your loved ones about your desires before your death.
Reasons for your choices
You may have reasons for leaving assets to certain heirs. Instead of including your reasoning in your will, consider including personal letters with your estate that get sent to your beneficiaries separately.
Accounts with beneficiaries
Adding beneficiaries in your will to assets that already include named beneficiary designations can create confusion. Some types of accounts that already include beneficiaries include life insurance policies and certain retirement accounts, such as IRAs.
Some of the information you should add to your will includes named beneficiaries for your assets, a list of your assets, the executor you want to appoint and your appointed guardian for minor children. Knowing what to include and what not to include in your will can preserve the efficacy of this document after your death.]]>On Behalf of Dittrich Law Firm, P.A.https://www.dittrichlawoffice.com/?p=505002023-05-16T01:31:58Z2023-05-16T01:31:58Zlearn to cope with the changes in their lives.
Encourage open communication with your children
Accept that your children may react angrily to the divorce. Depending on your kids' ages and development, they may respond differently. While you should not force your children to talk, you should allow them to speak their minds openly. Let them know that you will not judge them for how they feel. Watch out for signs of serious behavioral changes in your kids. Some kids may engage in reckless behavior or act out in school.
Talk to your kids about their actions and remain attentive to the changes they are going through. Many kids need reassurance that their place in their parents' lives will not change.
Do not speak negatively about your ex
Children are sensitive to conflict. Try to keep your conflict with your ex separate from your children. Remember that your children have parts of you and your ex within them. When you talk negatively about their other parent, they can internalize those feelings. If you need to vent or talk about your ex, find another adult to talk to rather than letting your children overhear.
Do not be afraid to seek a support system to help you and your children following a divorce. Some children may need help from a pediatrician or child mental health professional.]]>On Behalf of Dittrich Law Firm, P.A.https://www.dittrichlawoffice.com/?p=504992023-04-29T00:12:43Z2023-04-29T00:12:43ZPlanning ahead for sharing time
You can minimize disagreements with your ex by discussing big events such as vacations ahead of time. You will ultimately have to work within the bounds of your official custody schedule, so use that as a baseline when formulating your plans.
Some parents find it useful to make a list of important events such as birthdays, family reunions or any similar activities. You can then prioritize the things that are most important to you and your kids.
Communicating with your co-parent
Co-parenting requires some give and take on both sides. By planning ahead you can negotiate for the things that are most important to you. You will have a better idea of where you can compromise as well.
Remember that even if you are traveling or out doing activities, the line of communication between your child and the other parent should remain open. It is in your best interest to respond if your ex calls, allow your child to speak with them on the phone and keep them updated on what you have going on.
Collaborative co-parenting can still result in a magical summer vacation for you and your children. Be transparent and diplomatic in making your plans and remember to stick to the rules of your custody agreement.]]>On Behalf of Dittrich Law Firm, P.A.https://www.dittrichlawoffice.com/?p=504982023-04-24T21:22:42Z2023-04-24T21:22:42Z1. Determine your new identity
Your marriage made you part of a distinct unit in social and possibly professional circles. A separation can make you feel like you have lost your identity, but you have a chance to reestablish yourself.
Individuals are more than the sum of their family relationships. You may find it helpful to dedicate more time to other interests that define you, such as a career, volunteering, spirituality or hobbies.
2. Tend to your physical health
Caring for responsibilities where you once had a partner's help can overwhelm you. Stress and anxiety can affect your appetite and cause sleepless nights.
Build sufficient exercise, adequate rest and a healthy diet into your schedule. Paying attention to your physical state can help you make better decisions and maintain a positive mood.
3. Avoid unnecessary confrontations
It becomes easy to want to take things out on your ex or try to get revenge. However, power struggles and verbal altercations only bring more negativity into your life. Set firm boundaries for discussions and bring in a third party if necessary to keep things civil.
Divorce drastically alters your life, but the process does not have to wreck you. By keeping practical pointers in mind, you can endure the situation and come out as a better person on the other side.]]>