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While laws in the United States generally allow trust property to be protected from the creditors of beneficiaries, there has traditionally been an exception to these protections where property in a trust is derived from a beneficiary’s own contributions to the trust. In rejecting this traditional rule, some states have modernized their laws, via statute, to allow creditor-protected self-settled trusts under certain circumstances. Some key provisions of these laws are summarized for comparison.

The wildfire activity in late 2017 reached unprecedented levels and many lessons were learned from the devastation. With the intention of helping those in vulnerable areas to improve their homes’ resiliency to wildfire, and most importantly, keep their families safe, tips and recommendations are provided on life and safety evacuation, smart landscaping, home design, and general property maintenance.

Succession planning for a family business inevitably requires planning for the transition of the management team. This transition presents several challenges, including dealing with non-family managers and with a family member who is not suited for a leadership role in the business. These difficulties are not insurmountable, and, with clear communication, careful planning and assistance from advisors, the family will end the planning process with a stronger and more successful management team and family business.

On the journey to obtain independence and achieve financial success, the priorities usually include having a good educational experience, a sound resume and a career with a nice salary. That journey will likely contain u-turns, bumps and dead ends. And if good financial habits are not developed, then there can be a financial disaster. The reality is that the road to financial freedom requires practice and discipline. Stay on course—follow the 10 steps to financial freedom in your twenties and thirties—and you will reach your destination.

Are you maximizing protection when it comes to your online activity?

When it comes to keeping horses safe from a natural disaster, it starts with having a written plan so everyone involved knows what to do before, during and after a catastrophic event. The plan should be guided by best practices, including conducting a physical hazard assessment of your property.

Whether moving to a new home or setting up a seasonal residence, valuable and irreplaceable items require careful consideration. As part of a general household move, ten tips—beginning with creating an inventory—should be followed to protect your collections of fine art, antiques, jewelry, wine and other precious cargo.

It is often thought that financial success comes with a certain level of financial freedom: the freedom to pursue passions, to take risks, to give back, and to make an even bigger impact. In the 2018 U.S. Trust Insights on Wealth and Worth® survey, the results revealed that only half of high-net-worth individuals have a plan to optimize the opportunities their wealth provides.

1031 Exchange, commonly known as like-kind exchange, can be a smart tax strategy for business owners who also own or invest in real estate.

Kelly and Isabel talk about how "finding their person" guided them along their philanthropic journey. In this family, each generation encourages the next by engagement, mentorship, and resilient family culture. Listen and learn more about the Surdna Foundation's inspiring story of multi-generational giving.