by Jackie Cara | Apr 6, 2026 | Uncategorized
Article by Melissa Mendez, Smart Mobile Notary and Signing. There’s a line in this industry that should never be crossed—but often is: The difference between notarizing a document and giving legal advice. As a notary who works closely with attorneys, I take this...
by Jackie Cara | Apr 1, 2026 | Uncategorized
Takeaways More than a quarter of Americans live where medical aid-in-dying (MAID) is legal. Choosing MAID requires strict adherence to legal rules, and failing to follow them precisely can create serious problems for both the patient and their family’s estate...
by Jackie Cara | Apr 1, 2026 | Uncategorized
Takeaways With the current economy defined by uncertainty, many people hold off on financial decisions, sparking what some call the “hidden crisis” in the U.S. economy. Estate planning is a practical antidote to this sense of uncertainty. It offers a way...
by Jackie Cara | Apr 1, 2026 | Uncategorized
Takeaways Personal items such as furniture or jewelry can’t be easily divided equally, often making their distribution the hardest part of settling an estate. It’s helpful if the deceased person has listed who gets what in their will or a separate, binding...
by Jackie Cara | Apr 1, 2026 | Uncategorized
Takeaways Whether a surviving spouse automatically inherits a retirement account depends on its legal structure. Employer plans like 401(k)s generally default to the spouse due to federal law. IRAs do not have this automatic protection; the account goes to the...
by Jackie Cara | Mar 16, 2026 | Uncategorized
Takeaways Benjamin Franklin left a 200-year gift that shows estate planning isn’t just about passing down money; it’s about creating a plan that works long after you’re gone. A smart estate plan uses clear instructions, thoughtful timing, and trusted...
