Durable Power of Attorney: The Financial Essentials

Financial planning: calculator, piggy bank and money.

A Durable Power of Attorney is one of the most valuable tools a person can utilize during their lifetime. Whether you face a sudden health crisis, an extended hospital stay, or simply find yourself unable to manage your finances during a critical period like tax season, a properly executed Durable Power of Attorney ensures that someone you trust can step … Read More

Trust Funding: Why the Box Must be Filled

By: Samantha Banks [Trust Funding] Many people believe that once they sign their trust documents, their estate plan is complete. However, signing your trust documents is only the beginning. One of the most common (and costly) estate planning mistakes is failing to properly fund a trust after it’s signed. An unfunded trust can completely defeat the purpose of having one! … Read More

Choosing the Right Executor

Overhead image of a neat and clean desk

Written By: Jennifer Rozelle, Indiana Estate & Elder Law [Executor, Trustee] Selecting an Executor or Trustee is one of the most important decisions in estate planning, yet it is often made hastily or based on obligation rather than practicality. The person or institution you choose will handle your finances, navigate family dynamics, and manage legal processes after you’re gone. Here’s … Read More

Indiana Probate vs. Non-Probate Assets Explained

A comparison graphic of Indiana estate planning paths: The left side shows the formal probate process with a courthouse and gavel for assets like individual bank accounts and vehicles. The right side shows the non-probate path with a sunrise and trust documents, illustrating how assets like life insurance and living trusts bypass the probate court.

By: Justin Schuhmacher, Owner/Attorney [Probate] Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Indiana probate and estate planning laws are complex and subject to change. For advice specific to your situation, please consult with a qualified Indiana attorney. Summary: Understanding the foundation of an Indiana estate plan requires mastering the distinction between probate assets … Read More

New Year’s Resolution: Estate Planning as Your Top Priority

By: Rachael Rode, Attorney [Estate Planning] Summary: Making estate planning the top priority for 2026 is argued to be the most critical New Year’s Resolution. Completing this process protects your wealth, ensures your medical wishes are honored, and secures your family’s future against potential crisis. Key steps include creating a Will, establishing Powers of Attorney, and updating beneficiary designations to … Read More

Essential Senior Legal Services to Secure Your Future

A photo of an older couple looking at and talking with a legal professional. The blog title, "Essential Senior Legal Services for Your Future," and the law firm's logo, "IE & EL," are also shown.

By: Lisa Burris [Senior Legal Services] Senior Health Month is a timely reminder that health and legal preparedness go hand in hand. However, while many people focus on physical well-being, it’s equally important to protect your future with a solid legal and financial plan. From healthcare directives to Medicaid planning, the right documents and strategies ensure your wishes are honored, … Read More

Estate Planning for All Seasons of Life

A dark teal banner titled "Estate Planning for All Seasons of Life" features a stylized light green branch with heart-shaped leaves hanging from it, each heart representing a life stage: "Graduate High School," "Getting Married," "Having Children," "Divorce/Remarried," "Retirement," "Medical Diagnosis," and "Death of a Spouse." The law firm's logo "IE&EL" is in the bottom left, and a small white box in the bottom right says "PEACE OF MIND STARTS HERE.

By: Valerie Hollar, Drafting Paralegal [Estate Planning] Summary: This blog post, “Estate Planning for All Seasons of Life,” is a comprehensive guide to proactive planning. It addresses the unique estate planning considerations for every stage, including graduates, newlyweds, and retirees. Learn about key documents like wills, trusts, and powers of attorney to ensure peace of mind for you and your … Read More

What is Probate?

Probate in Indiana, probate attorney

By: Jennifer (Jenny) Rozelle, Owner & Attorney [Probate] Summary: This blog post clarifies the process of probate and the reasons why a person might want to avoid it. It details the costs, time commitment, and potential for family disputes associated with the process. The post also offers guidance on how to avoid this court process, offering various options that best … Read More

Estate Planning: Securing Your Family’s Future

Samantha Banks and her family, symbolizing peace of mind through estate planning

By: Samantha Banks, Attorney at Law [Estate Planning] Summary: Samantha Banks is an attorney at law at Indiana Estate & Elder Law, specializing in estate planning and elder law. Her passion for this field stems from a personal family experience with a flawed estate plan, driving her to make the process straightforward and accessible for her clients. She assists clients … Read More

Family Reunions: A Catalyst for Estate Planning

Blog image for family reunions showing a family posing together with lots of smiles.

By: Samantha Banks, Attorney at Law [Family Reunions] Summary: Family reunions, despite their potential for chaos, often serve as a surprising catalyst for estate planning. These gatherings offer a unique chance to observe shifts in family dynamics and facilitate important conversations about long-term care or business succession. They also bring to light changes in family structure, like new marriages or … Read More