Author: Linsi Tuttle
Social Media Use, TikTok, and Your Small Business
Posted on May 18, 2023
For several months now, lawmakers have expressed security concerns regarding the wildly popular video app TikTok. Several countries have already forbidden government employees from using the application, citing worries over user data being shared with the Chinese government or fears that the application will be used to spread misinformation. The future of TikTok in the United States is uncertain, and some lawmakers have pushed for the app to be banned entirely. In fact, the governor of Montana signed a bill this week to ban TikTok in the state. However, banning […]
Estate Planning Instruments for Transferring Real Estate
Posted on May 17, 2023
For many people, real estate properties are the most valuable assets they own. Personal residences, vacation homes, and other real estate properties also have significant personal and sentimental value. Many people include their home in their will, but there are many different estate planning instruments above and beyond a will that allow for the transfer of real estate. If you intend to leave one or more real estate properties to your loved ones, make sure you are using the right legal tool for the job. Joint Tenancy with Right of […]
Unmarried? Make Sure You Understand How This Influences Inheritance Rights and Estate Planning
Posted on May 8, 2023
Did you know that less than half of adults in the United States are married? Over the past few decades, marriage rates have dropped significantly. Fewer and fewer people are choosing to get married, and living with a romantic partner to whom you are not married is becoming increasingly frequent. For many couples, waiting to say “I do” is the smart choice. Nobody should rush into a marriage unless they are truly ready to marry. That being said, unmarried couples should understand the risks involved in foregoing an official marriage […]
Should I Use a Non-Disclosure Agreement When Selling My Business?
Posted on April 28, 2023
If you are planning to sell your business, you will need to discuss detailed information about your business operations, financials, and other sensitive information with prospective buyers. Understandably, this can make some business owners a little nervous. After all, confidential information that gets into the wrong hands can be used against you and your business, essentially undoing your years of hard work. A non-disclosure agreement or confidentiality agreement is a legal contract used to prohibit parties from sharing certain information. An NDA can be a very useful tool during the […]
Understanding Testamentary Capacity in the Context of Estate Planning
Posted on April 28, 2023
Anyone who signs a legal contract must do so of their own free will. An individual cannot be forced, manipulated, or tricked into signing a contract. These rules also apply to estate planning documents such as wills and trusts. Testamentary capacity refers to a person’s ability to create and agree to a valid will. An individual must be of sound mind to create a will that holds up against a will contest. Whether you are planning to create your will or you have concerns about the validity of a deceased […]
Key Estate Planning Considerations for Anyone Getting Divorced
Posted on April 25, 2023
If you are in the middle of a divorce or thinking about ending your marriage, make sure you understand how to update your estate plans to reflect your new marital status. Divorce can be very overwhelming, and it is not uncommon for people to neglect crucial estate planning concerns during and after their divorce. Update Your Power of Attorney for Healthcare and Finances A power of attorney is a legal tool used to designate an individual who has the authority to make decisions on your behalf. A power of attorney […]
Burnout is a Serious Problem for Business Owners: Here is How to Combat it
Posted on April 20, 2023
To say that the last few years have been difficult for business owners is to put it very lightly. Business owners have had to contest with record inflation, supply chain issues, worker shortages, and ever-changing customer needs. It comes as no surprise then that a significant number of small business owners are suffering from burnout. One national survey found that just under half of business owners have experienced burnout in the last month. Burnout refers to a general feeling of exhaustion caused by chronic work-related stress. It often leads to […]
Using a Special Needs Trust for a Child With a Severe Disability
Posted on April 18, 2023
If you are the parent of a disabled child, you are probably all too familiar with the expenses that come with a serious disability. The cost of special education, medical care, assistive devices, and other needs can be significant. For now, you may be able to cover these expenses by directly paying for your child’s needs. But what happens when you pass away and can no longer directly provide financial assistance to your child? A special needs trust is an estate planning tool that parents of disabled children can use […]
What Illinois Business Owners Need to Know About Personal Injury Liability
Posted on April 13, 2023
For business owners, the responsibilities are never-ending. There are so many things to think about that some tasks get put on the back burner. You may currently be focusing on sales, customer satisfaction, marketing, or streamlining your business practices. However, you may not give much thought to the possibility of somebody being injured on your property. Although it is often seen as a lesser priority, it is crucial for business owners to reduce personal injury liability as much as possible. The best way to do this is to take proactive […]
Leaving Inheritance to a Caregiver? Make Sure You Know Illinois Law
Posted on April 7, 2023
For elderly individuals and those in poor health, caregivers can be valuable sources of assistance, compassion, and support. Private nurses and other in-home healthcare workers assist with meals, hygiene, everyday tasks, and medical needs, providing crucial help to those in need. Understandably, many people come to think of paid caregivers as much more than just hired helpers—they become like family. If you are considering leaving assets to a caregiver through your will, make sure you understand how Illinois estate planning laws address these types of gifts. Illinois Law Regarding Inheritance […]












