Andrews & Pontius, LLC

06/05/2026

If you were married for at least 10 years and are age 62 or older, you may be eligible to collect Social Security benefits based on your ex-spouse's earnings history. Filing for these benefits will not notify your ex-spouse or reduce their monthly payments, making it a critical asset to evaluate when navigating a divorce.

The end of a marriage doesn’t necessarily end eligibility for family benefits

06/04/2026

While marriage equality provides many legal protections, estate planning remains an important step for both married and unmarried same-sex couples. Learn more about strategies that can help safeguard your loved ones and legacy.

An estate plan tailored for same‑sex couples is both an expression of love and a practical necessity. While marriage equality offers some protections, significant legal and financial differences remain, particularly for unmarried partners. By creating a clear plan that addresses property ownership...

06/03/2026

While both annulments and divorces end a marriage, they have very different legal requirements and consequences. Learn more about the key differences and the circumstances under which each option may apply.

Compare annulment vs. divorce—understand the legal differences and determine which option suits your situation. Get expert insights with MetLife.

06/02/2026

Selecting the right executor requires choosing an organized, reliable individual who can manage complex administrative tasks, navigate family dynamics, and dedicate months to settling your estate. To prevent delays and legal hurdles, avoid automatically appointing co-executors, obtain the candidate's prior consent, and name an alternate or estate attorney to handle the process.

This decision can be one of the toughest parts of estate planning

05/29/2026

Facing divorce? These seven steps can help you stabilize finances and plan for the future — from taking an inventory to updating estate documents and assessing housing and retirement choices.

Separating finances after divorce

05/28/2026

Estate planning puts you in control of your assets and care—start with an inventory, update beneficiaries, and set durable powers of attorney and health‑care directives. Review regularly and consult an estate‑planning attorney for a confidential, state‑specific review.

For estate planning, take inventory, account for family needs, establish directives, review beneficiaries, note state tax laws, weigh getting help and reassess.

05/27/2026

Many parents confuse the concept of co-parenting with the legal reality of joint custody. Co-parenting is the daily teamwork required to raise your children, but joint custody is the strict court order that dictates your legal decision-making power. Do not leave your parental rights to chance. Read our guide on how family courts define these boundaries and contact our firm today.

Explore the essentials of law about co-parenting, from different types and legal requirements to how agreements can be updated. Dive into a complete guide.

05/27/2026

Knowing what to do immediately after a car accident—such as contacting the police, documenting the scene, and exchanging information—is critical to protecting your physical safety and insurance recovery. If you are dealing with severe injuries, disputed fault, or a hit-and-run driver, consult a personal injury attorney to safely navigate the claims process and protect your rights.

Even a minor car accident can cause major stress. Here's what to do after a crash—whether it's your fault or the other driver's

05/26/2026

Did you know that outdated beneficiary designations on your retirement accounts or life insurance policies can completely override your trust? Do not let a simple paperwork mismatch misdirect your inheritance. Check out these five vital trust rules and call us to update your plan.

Seniors should review these five revocable living trust rules before June to avoid probate mistakes, tax confusion, and Medicaid surprises.

05/22/2026

Dividing a 401(k) in divorce usually requires a QDRO to transfer benefits tax‑free — QDROs, pension valuation, and beneficiary updates are technical and state‑specific; consult a divorce attorney and financial expert before agreeing to any split. https://www.investopedia.com/divorce-and-401-k-5441868