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The Rhode Island Supreme Court issued a significant estate administration decision in Fairhurst v. Fairhurst, — A.3d —- (2026), unanimously affirming that a co-executor who purchased estate real estate without probate court approval engaged in unlawful self-dealing — and that a will provision purporting to waive that approval requirement cannot override the statute. Background Harry…

Nearly ninety percent of new business filings in recent years have been limited liability companies. That number alone tells you something important: the LLC has become the default starting point for American entrepreneurs. But “default” does not always mean “optimal.” With over five million new business applications filed nationally in 2024 and that momentum carrying…

A strong relationship with a business lawyer can protect your company and help it grow. Knowing how to work effectively with legal counsel makes the process smoother and more cost-efficient for everyone involved. Prepare Before Every Meeting Time with your attorney is valuable. Coming prepared allows you to cover more ground and reduces billable hours…

Online estate planning services promise affordable convenience, but they cannot match the value professional attorneys provide. Estate planning involves more than filling out forms. It requires legal knowledge, strategic thinking, and understanding of your unique circumstances that generic templates simply cannot address. An estate planning lawyer brings education, experience, and personalized attention that protect your…

As a family business owner, one of the most significant challenges you face is planning the transfer of ownership in a way that preserves the enterprise for the next generation while treating all your children fairly. This task grows more complex when some children are ready and able to lead the business, while others may…

Seeking second opinions on estate plans is smart, not insulting to original attorneys. Estate planning involves important decisions affecting your family’s future, and different attorneys bring varying perspectives, experience levels, and strategic approaches.  An estate planning lawyer providing second opinions approaches your plan with fresh eyes and no defensive attachment to prior recommendations. We’ve identified…

Estate planning problems often seem overwhelming to families facing them, yet many issues have straightforward solutions when handled by experienced attorneys. What looks like an insurmountable obstacle to families usually represents a routine matter that professional guidance resolves efficiently. A seasoned estate planning attorney brings experience with similar situations that allows quick identification of optimal…

The continuity of a closely held business represents not merely an economic endeavor but a profound legacy forged through generations of dedication and ingenuity.  Proactive and thoughtful succession planning is indispensable; without it, the substantial value built over a lifetime can evaporate rapidly, jeopardizing both the enterprise and family harmony.  The following are some of…

Probate is a state-level legal process, which means the rules governing estate administration vary significantly depending on where the deceased person lived. What’s required in one state might be completely different just across the border. These variations affect everything from how long probate takes to whether you need court supervision at all. Probate Thresholds Vary…