Wenzel & Wenzel, PLLC

06/11/2026

Estate planning does not always require leaving equal inheritances to every beneficiary. Learn more about the legal and personal considerations that may influence decisions regarding unequal distributions in a will.

https://www.legion.org/information-center/news/planned-giving/2026/january/passing-unequal-shares-in-your-will

06/09/2026

Estate planning ensures your assets are distributed according to your precise wishes rather than being left to a probate court's discretion. A comprehensive plan protects your loved ones by naming guardians for minor children, minimizing tax liabilities, and preventing family inheritance disputes.

Learn why estate planning is essential for protecting assets, avoiding probate, minimizing taxes, naming guardians, and preventing inheritance disputes.

06/08/2026

In a standard real estate transaction, closing costs are divided between the buyer and seller to cover vital transfer expenses like loan origination and title insurance. Recent industry rule changes have shifted how agent commissions are handled, making real estate broker fees a direct and essential point of negotiation for both parties.

Who pays closing costs in a home sale? Uncover common buyer and seller responsibilities and the negotiable components of these financial logistics.

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...

06/02/2026

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

05/26/2026

What are "pocket listings," and why are they a threat to homebuyers? A new report from the Consumer Federation of America warns that these hidden, private listings are hurting market transparency. Before you buy or sell, let our real estate attorney ensure you are getting a fair, legally sound deal.

https://consumerfed.org/press_release/new-report-finds-nar-settlement-has-not-delivered-lower-costs-highlights-emerging-pocket-listings-as-threat-to-homebuyers/

05/21/2026

Estate planning involves more than simply filling out forms or using online templates. Learn more about the role an estate planning attorney can play in helping protect your assets and long-term wishes.

https://www.americanbar.org/groups/real_property_trust_estate/resources/estate-planning/lawyers-role/

05/14/2026

Beneficiary forms on retirement accounts, life insurance, and POD/TOD accounts generally control who receives those assets — review and update your beneficiary designations after major life events to avoid unintended outcomes.

Most Americans believe their will distributes their estate, but that's not the case with retirement accounts, life insurance, and more.

05/11/2026

A home‑equity agreement gives an investor a lien in exchange for cash and often requires a large balloon repayment tied to future home value — have a lawyer review lien terms, repayment triggers, and tax consequences before signing. https://www.investopedia.com/articles/personal-finance/what-is-a-home-equity-agreement/

05/07/2026

An executor must inventory assets, notify creditors and beneficiaries, file the will with probate court, and submit a final accounting before distributing assets; consider consulting a probate attorney for next steps.

An executor must act in an estate’s best interest while performing all tasks necessary to lead the estate through the probate process and distribute its assets.