Estate Planning for Non-traditional Families

Wendy S. Goffe (shareholder, Graham & Dunn, PC) has recently published her article entitled Planning for Non-Traditional Families, 46th Annual Advanced Ali-Aba Summer Program, 2011. The abstract available on SSRN is below:

This presentation will cover issues affecting unmarried couples that have chosen not to marry or cannot marry for legal reasons. The laws that determine the rights and obligations of the parties in the event of death, disability or dissolution of the relationship that apply to married couples for the most part do not apply to unmarried couples. This presentation will examine the various domestic partnership, civil union and same-sex marriage laws, and the varying rights and responsibilities they provide. This presentation will also examine the planning that can be done to minimize taxes, minimize conflict, and ensure that the disposition of assets at death or dissolution of a relationship occurs as intended. This presentation will also provide drafting tips with respect to estate planning documents for clients in a non-marital relationship or same-sex marriage, to ensure their wishes, as well as provide for guardians of minor children and appropriate agents to handle financial matters and make medical decisions in the event of disability.