News & Articles

Estate planning can be thought of as gift-giving on a bigger, more enduring scale. But unlike a holiday gift that can be returned or exchanged, the “gifts” of an estate plan carry emotional weight and often touch on sensitive family dynamics that demand more in-depth conversation. Having “the Talk” before “the Transfer” is critical to reducing conflict and uncertainty. Read more to learn some key findings that highlight why these conversations matter.

You cannot stop fall from turning into winter. The best you can do is ensure that you are prepared for colder weather to come. An estate plan can be thought of in the same way. While it will not stave off what is inevitably coming and what we may prefer to avoid altogether, it can provide warmth to those who are left gathered around the hearth. Read more to learn some practical pointers to keep your estate plan from burning out and to ensure that it is ready to work when you need it most.

Americans today are somewhat split on what defines a traditional Thanksgiving. Most of us celebrate the holiday, but our traditions and activities vary widely. Still, as new traditions replace old ones, the core of Thanksgiving—connection, gratitude, and shared experience—remains the same. Estate plans can evolve in much the same way, reflecting new realities and a renewed spirit of giving. Estate plans are not only about passing down money and possessions. Read more to discover how estate plans are also a way to preserve traditions, share values, and keep families connected for generations to come.

Your life changes—and your estate plan should change with it. From new family members and financial shifts to changing laws, your original plan may no longer reflect your current goals. This article shares how one family’s story illustrates why updating your plan every few years is essential to protect your loved ones and secure your legacy. If it’s been more than three to five years since your last review, now’s the time to make sure your estate plan still gives you peace of mind.

Your estate plan should evolve as your life changes. From family updates to financial shifts, this guide walks you through nine key questions to help you stress test your plan and ensure it still protects your loved ones and gives you peace of mind.

Fair doesn’t always mean equal when it comes to inheritance. Learn how to create an estate plan that supports each child’s unique needs and circumstances. From trusts and lifetime gifts to protecting assets from creditors or divorce, Sheil Law Firm helps Colorado families plan wisely and protect what matters most.

Welcoming a new baby is the perfect time to secure your family’s future with an estate plan. A well-crafted plan ensures your child is cared for by the guardian you choose, your assets are properly distributed, and your wishes are honored if you become unable to make decisions. Whether through a will or a trust, estate planning protects your loved ones from stress and uncertainty.

When it comes to passing on your money and property to your minor children, having good intentions won’t necessarily secure their inheritances. Without a solid plan, crucial protections won’t be available, resulting in unexpected challenges. Check out this article to learn about common mistakes parents make during the estate planning process and how to better protect and provide for your minor children.

Choosing a guardian is one of the most important decisions for your child’s future. Learn what to consider, why it matters, and how to make sure the right person is there to protect your child if you can’t

Estate planning isn’t one-size-fits-all. Whether you’re part of a blended family, unmarried, supporting aging parents, or raising kids, your plan should reflect your unique situation. A personalized estate plan helps protect your loved ones, secure your legacy, and make sure your wishes are carried out exactly as intended. Get the clarity, confidence, and peace of mind your family deserves.

Every family is unique — and your estate plan should reflect that. Whether your family is blended, unmarried, caring for loved ones with special needs, or part of the sandwich generation, a one-size-fits-all plan won’t cut it. Thoughtful estate planning helps protect your partner, children, and aging parents while making sure your wishes are followed. A customized plan provides clarity, security, and peace of mind for the people you love most.

Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy — it’s about protecting the people and things that matter most. This article breaks down the most common excuses people make for putting it off and why having a comprehensive, legally documented estate plan is essential. From clearing up myths about assets to explaining why beneficiary designations aren’t enough, Sheil Law Firm empowers families to take control of their legacy and secure peace of mind for the future.

Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy—it’s about protecting your family, your wishes, and your legacy. This article clears up four common estate planning myths, including whether your spouse automatically has decision-making power, if verbal wishes are enough, whether one will lasts a lifetime, and if estate planning is only for the rich. Learn the truths that ensure your loved ones are protected, your assets are distributed as you intend, and your future is secure.

Do you need a will or a trust? Yes—everyone benefits from having an estate plan. Learn how wills and trusts protect your legacy, manage digital accounts, safeguard assets from Medicaid recovery, reduce tax burdens on retirement accounts, and ensure your beneficiaries are protected. Work with Sheil Law Firm to create a plan that provides peace of mind for you and your loved ones

Regis Philbin, the Guinness World Record holder for the most hours on US television, was a familiar face in millions of homes for decades. By the time he retired from his show Live with Regis and Kelly in 2011, he had spent more than 16,740 hours in front of the camera. While Philbin accumulated most of his net worth as the host of game and talk shows, his estate planning documents and court records show that he also left millions in other assets behind. Read more to discover the lessons learned from Regis Philbin.

Born into an impoverished Houston household in 1949, George Foreman lived a rags-to-riches tale of pure Americana: Olympic gold medalist, heavyweight boxing champion, ordained minister, global pitchman, and father to a dozen children. Unlike many celebrities, Foreman was considered relatable and connected to his audience. Read more to learn about how that relatability extended to many of the estate planning issues he had to navigate as someone with multiple marriages, a large blended family, and adopted children.

Actor Val Kilmer’s passing in April 2025 highlights estate planning issues that can affect almost anyone. Although Kilmer was a celebrity, these issues—including managing real estate in more than one state, deciding what happens with digital assets, and using charitable gifts to leave a legacy and help reduce estate taxes—are concerns that can be especially important for individuals who have an out-of-state summer home or cottage, a creative or online-persona-based career, or a favorite charity they want to support after their death. Read more to discover lessons learned from Val Kilmer.

Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy—it’s a crucial step for every Colorado family looking to protect their loved ones and secure their future. From wills and trusts to guardianship and healthcare directives, this blog walks you through why it’s important to start planning early and how doing so can offer peace of mind during life’s most unpredictable moments. Whether you’re starting a family, buying a home, or simply want to ensure your wishes are honored, estate planning puts you in control.

Learn how to spot and avoid trust scams that promise false tax breaks and asset protection. Discover the red flags, IRS warnings, and how a qualified estate planning attorney can help you create a legitimate trust to protect your wealth and loved ones.

Create an estate plan that reflects your values, life lessons, and legacy—not just your assets. Plan with Sheil Law Firm in Colorado today.

Nearly 75% of parents lack a plan for their child’s care in emergencies. Learn how a will, power of attorney, and guardian nomination can safeguard your child’s future.