Stouffer Legal Blog

In the vast stretches of the California coastline, amidst the shimmering waves and rugged cliffs, a drone photographer stumbled upon something truly unexpected. Nick, of Parallax Effect, unveiled to the world a mesmerizing driftwood shack perched precariously on a cliff over the Pacific. This intriguing discovery tells a tale of life on the edge, literally and metaphorically. But how does a hermit’s house relate to your estate planning? Let's dive deeper.

In the age of technological advancements, many of us have embarked on the journey to discover our roots through DNA testing and ancestry platforms. While the majority are looking for a mere connection to their past, some find life-altering truths. This narrative is not just a testament to the unpredictability of life but also underscores the paramount importance of estate planning, especially in complex familial circumstances.

As Vanguard’s “How America Saves 2023” report sheds light on the importance of saving for retirement, a dimension often overlooked in such conversations is the eventual disposition of these funds. For individuals diligently working to amass a retirement nest egg, the question isn't just about the size of the savings, but also about who inherits it. Your retirement savings have a dual role - they secure your future and potentially become a part of your legacy.

Estate planning isn't just about wills and trusts. It’s also about planning for the unexpected, and more recently, it’s about weighing the pros and cons of innovative housing solutions like granny pods.

The great city of Baltimore has always had its share of unsung heroes and heroines. Today, we celebrate one such remarkable individual - Susan Taylor King. As a young woman in a time of global conflict, racial segregation, and male-dominated workplaces, King exemplified courage and determination.

It's a fascinating prospect: Are there forgotten riches or unclaimed properties waiting for you, hidden just beneath the surface? It sounds like something straight out of a novel or a mystery movie. But for many residents of Maryland, it's a reality.

At a glance, food expiration dates and estate planning may seem worlds apart. However, they share more in common than one might think. Consider this: when was the last time you critically examined the 'shelf life' of your will or estate plan?

Don’t pretend you didn’t just have a sneaky sip of that pumpkin spice latte or felt a little thrill pulling out your coziest sweaters. I mean, who doesn’t take at least ONE picture of those vibrant, crispy leaves on the ground?

Every now and then, stories from unrelated fields teach us life lessons that resonate deeply. Take for instance, the recent narrative that unfolded between Burger King and their dedicated customer base. The global fast food giant argued that their burgers weren't required to look "exactly like the picture" they use in their restaurants and advertisements.

The delicate fabric of family connections is sometimes strained to its limits, leading to estrangements more frequently than we might think. According to a study by Cornell University sociologist Karl Pillemer, a surprising 27% of Americans have severed ties with a family member.