Lisa McGraw, Esq. 4/1/24 Lisa McGraw, Esq. 4/1/24

14 Ways to Show Your Finances Some Love - Part 1

Lisa McGraw, Esq. 3/25/24 Lisa McGraw, Esq. 3/25/24

This New Law Makes It Easier to Save for Retirement and Pay Off School Loans At The Same Time

The SECURE 2.0 Act aims to make it easier for people to pay off student loans while also saving for retirement. Want to know if this applies to you?

Read now…

Lisa McGraw, Esq. 3/18/24 Lisa McGraw, Esq. 3/18/24

2 Conversations About Money and Death You Need to Have With Your Parents Right Now

In this week’s blog, we take the conversation about money and death to a deeper level with your parents and family to truly understand your family’s financial picture and your plan for the future.

Read now…

Lisa McGraw, Esq. 3/11/24 Lisa McGraw, Esq. 3/11/24

Think Your Kids Will Automatically Be Cared For In the Way You Want? They Might Not Be Unless You Do This

Many assume that in the event of their untimely passing, their children will automatically be cared for and inherit their assets. However, the reality is far more complex and potentially unsettling.

Let's unpack why relying on assumptions alone could leave your children's future in uncertain hands.

Lisa McGraw, Esq. 3/4/24 Lisa McGraw, Esq. 3/4/24

Have You Made one of These 6 Common Mistakes That Could Leave Your Kids in the Care of Someone You Would Never Choose?

Here are the 6 common mistakes most parents (and their Lawyers!) make when naming guardians. If you’ve made one of these 6 common mistakes, not to worry; we have solutions! Schedule a consultation and see what you can do to make sure your kids would always be taken care of by people you know, love and trust.

Lisa McGraw, Esq. 2/26/24 Lisa McGraw, Esq. 2/26/24

Guardianship 101: Safeguarding Your Little Stars for Today and Tomorrow

Parenthood is a remarkable journey filled with love, laughter, and the occasional sleepless night. Amidst the joy, it's crucial to consider the what-ifs and ensure a safety net for your little ones. That's where naming both permanent and temporary guardians steps into the spotlight.

Lisa McGraw, Esq. 2/11/24 Lisa McGraw, Esq. 2/11/24

This Change to The FAFSA Rules Could Help Your Grandkids Qualify for More Student Aid

Want to contribute to your grandchild’s future college education? Changes to the FAFSA rules now make it easier than ever

Lisa McGraw, Esq. 2/4/24 Lisa McGraw, Esq. 2/4/24

Hiring a Lawyer: What Flat Fees, Hourly Fees and Retainer Billing Could Mean For Your Life and Family

This week, we explore the differences between hourly billing and flat fee billing for attorneys, and how these differences can affect the legal work you’re paying for.

Lisa McGraw, Esq. 1/28/24 Lisa McGraw, Esq. 1/28/24

What Caregivers Need to Know About Estate Planning for a Loved One With Dementia - Part 2

This week we continue our discussion on estate planning for a loved one with dementia and how planning must become more proactive and strategic than ever to avoid conflict over your loved one’s wishes in the future.

Lisa McGraw, Esq. 1/23/24 Lisa McGraw, Esq. 1/23/24

What Caregivers Need to Know About Estate Planning for a Loved One With Dementia - Part 1

In this blog, we'll explore the importance of estate planning, even after a dementia diagnosis, as the best method to ensure the wishes and rights of your loved one are protected.

Lisa McGraw, Esq. 1/8/24 Lisa McGraw, Esq. 1/8/24

Have Unused 529 College Savings? Roll Them Into a Roth

In 2024, the SECURE 2.0 Act brings significant changes to the world of retirement savings and college savings accounts that could substantially impact your family's financial future.

Lisa McGraw, Esq. 1/1/24 Lisa McGraw, Esq. 1/1/24

Holding Space for Grief: Ways to Comfort and Support A Loved One in Mourning

Losing a loved one is an incredibly challenging experience, and the journey through grief can be both complex and overwhelming. In this blog, we explore practical and heartfelt ways to hold space for your loved ones who are mourning.

Lisa McGraw, Esq. 12/19/23 Lisa McGraw, Esq. 12/19/23

Transition to Adulthood: What Happens Legally When My Child Turns 18?

This week we explore what happens legally when your child turns 18, what it means for your ability to make legal, financial and healthcare decisions on their behalf, and what tools you’ll need for a smooth transition to adulthood.

Lisa McGraw, Esq. 12/12/23 Lisa McGraw, Esq. 12/12/23

What You Must Know About Your Right to Your Spouse’s Retirement Benefits

This week, I explain how the law affects retirement distributions for married couples, and why you need to be extra careful with your retirement planning if you’re part of a blended family.

Lisa McGraw, Esq. 11/21/23 Lisa McGraw, Esq. 11/21/23

How to Talk Money With Your Family Over The Holidays

The holidays are a perfect time to bring up conversations around inheritance, end of life, and stepping into another level of connection and intimacy, if you do it right.

Otherwise, it could end in a big unresolved mess. Asking your relatives how they want their money and belongings handled when they die or if they become incapacitated might not go over well while opening presents or carving a turkey.

To keep your family from feeling blindsided and to make the most of your conversation, consider these tips. Read more…

Lisa McGraw, Esq. 10/31/23 Lisa McGraw, Esq. 10/31/23

The Scary Truth: Naming Godparents Does Not Create Legal Guardians

Many parents name godparents to mentor and guide their children throughout life. But the scary truth is that your children could still end up in protective services even if they have a godparent.

Lisa McGraw, Esq. 10/23/23 Lisa McGraw, Esq. 10/23/23

From 'I Do' to 'What If': Estate Planning Must-Do's for Newlyweds - Part 1

With all the joy and happiness a new marriage brings, planning for your potential incapacity and future death may feel out of place, but creating your estate plan as part of your post-nuptial to-do list is the greatest gift you can give your new spouse. Read more…

Lisa McGraw, Esq. 10/21/23 Lisa McGraw, Esq. 10/21/23

From 'I Do' to 'What If': Estate Planning Must-Do's for Newlyweds - Part 2

Last week we started to explore the key estate planning components every newlywed couple needs to protect their rights, wishes, and plans now and in the future. This week, we’re continuing the conversation with three more estate planning must-do’s for newlyweds. Read more…

Lisa McGraw, Esq. 10/9/23 Lisa McGraw, Esq. 10/9/23

Got Intellectual Property? Include It In Your Estate Plan

If you create music, own a business, write stories, or build gadgets in your garage, you almost certainly have intellectual property. However, because intellectual property is intangible, it’s often overlooked in estate planning. Read more…

Lisa McGraw, Esq. 10/2/23 Lisa McGraw, Esq. 10/2/23

Help Your Parents Avoid These New Financial Scams - Part 2

In part one of this series, we explored two popular scams that are targeting older adults this year. In this week’s blog, I’m sharing two more scams that you and your parents need to be aware of, plus tips for staying protected. Read more…