Stouffer Legal Blog

As the confetti settles post-New Year celebrations and the echoes of "New Year, New Me!" mantras begin to fade, many of us find ourselves setting ambitious resolutions. Yet, a curious phenomenon often occurs: by mid-January, these resolutions seem to slip through our fingers like sand. This cycle of ambition and subsequent abandonment is so prevalent that it has even spawned its own counter-holiday: Ditch New Year’s Resolution Day, observed on January 17th.

Estate planning is a sensitive yet crucial aspect of financial management, often shrouded in privacy and discretion. However, at Stouffer Legal, we advocate for a different approach – one that emphasizes the importance of open lines of communication with family members about post-death plans. This stance is not just a matter of preference but is rooted in the belief that transparency fosters understanding and prepares beneficiaries for the future.

When it comes to estate planning, we often focus on the tangible aspects – assets, wills, trusts, and the like. However, at Stouffer Legal, we believe in a holistic approach to life planning, one that includes mental well-being. In this light, we're turning our attention to a condition that may impact many of our clients: Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

In an age where automation is increasingly prevalent, the recent backlash against self-checkout systems in stores highlights a fundamental human desire: the need for personal attention and care. At Stouffer Legal, we understand this need, especially when it comes to the sensitive and crucial matter of estate planning. Our firm is committed to providing a personalized experience to each client, a philosophy that sets us apart in a world leaning towards automation.

Estate planning is a crucial process, yet many individuals delay or overlook critical aspects, leading to complications for their heirs. As a leading estate planning firm helping families throughout the state of Maryland we understand the complexities involved. This article, inspired by insights from Kiplinger Advisor Collective members, aims to guide you through common mistakes in estate planning and offer strategies to ensure a smooth and effective plan.

In an era where digital footprints are as significant as physical ones, the recent announcement by Google to delete inactive Gmail and Photos accounts is a stark reminder of the impermanence of digital services. At Stouffer Legal, we understand the importance of securely preserving your vital estate planning documents. That's why we're excited to offer our clients access to the Zapa Client Portal, a platform that guarantees the safety and permanence of your important documents

Alzheimer's disease, a progressive condition affecting millions, remains a primary concern for many of our clients and their families. Recent developments in early detection offer a beacon of hope and a potential game-changer in managing this challenging disease.

Recent developments in Maryland's transportation sector present a compelling parallel to the world of estate planning. As the Maryland Transportation Revenue and Infrastructure Needs Commission considers toll increases and fees on electric and hybrid vehicles, it highlights a fundamental truth: circumstances are ever-changing, and adaptation is key to success.

Honoring Fallen Heroes: Join us in remembering Captain Dillon Rinaldo and Firefighter Rodney Pitts III, whose courage and sacrifice symbolize the valor of Baltimore's firefighters. Their legacies live on in our push for fire safety and in the hearts of the community

The romantic gesture of affixing love locks at natural wonders like the Grand Canyon speaks volumes about the human desire to immortalize affection. However, this trend, reflecting a global sentiment of everlasting love, has triggered unintentional harm to the Grand Canyon's fragile ecosystem, echoing similar oversights people make in estate planning. Just as these padlocks inadvertently threaten endangered species like the California condor, a poorly planned Will can place unforeseen burdens on loved ones. Awareness and responsible action are crucial, both in celebrating love and in crafting a legacy.