McKnight Reaves Trust & Estate Group, PLLC

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McKnight Reaves Trust & Estate Group, PLLC

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08/17/2026

It’s one of the most common questions we hear, and the answer is: it depends.

While every estate is different, many probate cases in Virginia take around 12 to 18 months to complete. More complex estates or disputes between beneficiaries can extend the process even longer.

During probate, the executor is responsible for:
 • Gathering assets • Paying debts and taxes • Filing required documents with the court • Distributing assets to beneficiaries

The good news? Not every asset has to go through probate. Proper estate planning, including tools like trusts, beneficiary designations, and joint ownership where appropriate, may help simplify or even avoid the probate process for certain assets.

Planning ahead can save your loved ones time, stress, and unnecessary expenses when they need it most.

Follow us for practical estate planning tips to help protect your family and your legacy.

08/11/2026

If your business depends on you, what happens if you’re suddenly not there?

Many business owners spend years building a successful company but never create a plan for who takes over if they retire, become disabled, or pass away.

A business succession plan can help:

• Keep your business operating without unnecessary disruption. • Identify who will take over ownership and leadership. • Reduce conflict between family members, business partners, or employees. • Protect the value you’ve worked so hard to build. • Give your family, employees, and clients confidence during a difficult time.

Without a clear plan, your business could face delays, legal disputes, financial losses, or even closure.

Business succession planning is not just for retirement. It’s about protecting everything you’ve built, no matter what the future holds.

If you own a business, now is the time to start the conversation.

Follow us for practical estate planning tips that help protect your family, your business, and your legacy.

08/01/2026

We’re excited to welcome Beth Metts to the McKnight Reaves Trust & Estate Group as Of Counsel!

With more than 35 years of experience in estate planning and estate administration, Beth has helped hundreds of families protect what matters most. Her thoughtful, client-focused approach and deep knowledge make her a valuable addition to our team.

Please join us in giving Beth a warm welcome. We look forward to the experience, compassion, and guidance she’ll bring to our clients and community.

07/29/2026

Not all estate plans are created equal. Before trusting someone with your family’s future, ask these five questions:

1. What documents do you recommend for my specific situation?
Your plan should be built around your family, assets, and goals. Be cautious of anyone offering the exact same package to everyone.

2. What happens if my life changes?
Marriage, divorce, children, grandchildren, buying a home, or starting a business can all affect your estate plan. Ask how future updates are handled.

3. Will my loved ones have to go through probate?
A good attorney should explain which assets may avoid probate and how your plan is designed to make things as simple as possible for your family.

4. Who will help my family when the time comes?
Estate planning doesn’t end when you sign the documents. Ask what support your loved ones can expect if they ever need to carry out your wishes.

5. How often should I review my estate plan?
Your estate plan should grow with you. Most people should review it every few years or after a major life event.

The right attorney won’t just prepare documents. They’ll take the time to answer your questions, explain your options, and help you make informed decisions with confidence.

If you’re ready to create or update your estate plan, our team is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start protecting the people who matter most.

07/24/2026

The biggest mistake parents make with estate planning is thinking it can wait.

The truth is, life doesn’t always give us extra time to get our affairs in order.

Here are three of the most common mistakes we see:

• Not naming a guardian for minor children. If you don’t make that decision, a court may have to.

• Relying only on a will. A complete estate plan can help avoid unnecessary delays, protect your family, and make sure your wishes are carried out.

• Forgetting to update your plan. Marriage, divorce, new children, moving, or major financial changes are all reasons to review your documents.

Estate planning is about protecting the people you love most. Taking action today can give your family clarity and peace of mind for the future.

If you have questions about creating or updating your estate plan, contact our office to schedule a consultation.

07/23/2026

Being named as the executor of someone’s estate is an honor, but it also comes with important legal responsibilities.

If you’ve recently been named an executor, here’s where to start.

• Locate the original will and any estate planning documents.

• Secure the person’s home, valuables, and important financial records.

• Obtain multiple certified copies of the death certificate. You’ll need them for banks, insurance companies, and other institutions.

• Meet with an estate planning attorney to understand your legal responsibilities and the probate process.

• Create a list of the person’s assets, debts, and ongoing bills.

• Avoid distributing money or property until you’ve received the proper legal authority and understand the estate’s obligations.

• Keep detailed records of every expense, payment, and decision you make. Good documentation can help prevent problems later.

Every estate is different, and the executor’s duties can vary depending on the will, state law, and the complexity of the estate. Getting experienced legal guidance early can help you avoid costly mistakes and fulfill your responsibilities with confidence.

If you’ve been named an executor and aren’t sure where to begin, our team is here to help guide you through each step of the process.

07/13/2026

Most people assume estate planning is just a will. In reality, a complete estate plan includes several documents that work together to protect you, your loved ones, and your wishes.

What estate planning documents do you actually need?

• Last Will and Testament Names who will receive your assets and who will care for your minor children.

• Revocable Living Trust (when appropriate) Helps manage assets during your lifetime and can simplify the transfer of assets after your death.

• Durable Financial Power of Attorney Allows someone you trust to handle financial matters if you’re unable to do so.

• Advance Medical Directive Documents your healthcare wishes and appoints someone to make medical decisions if you cannot.

• HIPAA Authorization Allows your chosen individuals to access your medical information when it’s needed most.

Every family’s situation is different. The right estate plan is built around your goals, not a one-size-fits-all checklist.

If it’s been years since you reviewed your estate plan, or you’ve never created one, now is a good time to start.

Contact our office to schedule a consultation and create a plan that protects what matters most.

07/07/2026

Probate is often misunderstood, and common misconceptions can lead to costly mistakes.

Here are a few of the myths we hear most often.

Myth: “Having a will means my estate will avoid probate.”

Fact: A will does not automatically avoid probate. Instead, it provides the court with instructions for administering your estate according to your wishes.

Myth: “Estate planning is only necessary for high-net-worth individuals.”

Fact: Estate planning is valuable for anyone who wants to protect their assets, provide for loved ones, or ensure their wishes are carried out.

Myth: “Everything automatically passes to my spouse.”

Fact: The distribution of your estate depends on your individual circumstances and applicable state law. Without proper planning, the outcome may not align with your intentions.

Myth: “I can put off estate planning until later.”

Fact: The most effective estate plans are created before they are needed. Planning ahead can reduce unnecessary delays, expenses, and stress for your loved ones.

A thoughtful estate plan provides more than legal documents. It provides clarity, protection, and peace of mind.

If you have questions about probate or would like to review your current estate plan, contact our office to schedule a consultation. We’re here to help you make informed decisions for the future.

07/02/2026

Many people assume their assets will automatically pass to their spouse or children. However, that isn’t always the case.

When someone passes away without a valid will, they are considered to have died “intestate.” In that situation, state law determines who inherits their assets and who is appointed to administer their estate.

Depending on your circumstances, this can result in:

• A court deciding how your assets are distributed
• Delays in settling your estate
• Additional legal costs and court involvement
• Uncertainty and added stress for your loved ones

A properly drafted will allows you to make these decisions yourself. It lets you choose who will receive your assets, who will administer your estate, and, if you have minor children, who you want to serve as their guardian.

Estate planning is about providing clarity, protecting your loved ones, and ensuring your wishes are honored.

If you don’t have a will, or it’s been years since you reviewed your estate plan, now is the time to take the next step.

Contact our office to schedule a consultation and create a plan that protects the people who matter most.

06/16/2026

As parents get older, having the right legal documents in place becomes more important than ever.

An estate plan can help:

• Make sure their wishes are followed if they become unable to make decisions
• Appoint someone they trust to manage finances and healthcare decisions
• Avoid unnecessary court involvement
• Protect assets and simplify the transfer of property
• Reduce stress and uncertainty for loved ones during difficult times

The best time to create a plan is before a crisis happens.

A thoughtful estate plan gives aging parents more control, more protection, and greater peace of mind for the future.

Have questions about helping an aging parent get their affairs in order? Contact our office to learn where to start.

Address

555 Belaire Avenue, Suite 300
Chesapeake, VA
23320

Website

https://www.mrtrustandestate.com/

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