Kierman Law PLC

06/11/2026

Probate Can Get Expensive Fast. Here’s How to Protect More of What You Leave Behind

The bad news is simple: probate can cost your family more than you think.

When someone passes away, and their estate has to go through probate, the process can bring a long list of expenses. Attorney fees. Court fees. Executor fees. Appraisal costs. Accounting fees. Administrative costs. And depending on how complicated the estate is, those costs can add up quickly, sometimes reaching tens of thousands of dollars.

That means money you worked hard to build may end up being spent on a court process instead of going directly to the people you love.

The good news? Many probate costs can be reduced or even avoided with the right planning.

Probate is not always necessary. With a thoughtful estate plan, you can help your family avoid delays, reduce stress, and protect more of your assets for the people and causes that matter most.

Here are 3 smart ways to help reduce or avoid probate costs:

1. Name a Beneficiary

Some assets can pass directly to the people you choose without going through probate, but only if your beneficiary designations are set up correctly.

This often applies to life insurance, retirement accounts, bank accounts, investment accounts, and, in some cases, real estate. When a beneficiary is properly named, that asset can transfer directly to the person you selected.

The key is making sure your beneficiary information is complete, updated, and aligned with your overall estate plan. A missing or outdated beneficiary can create confusion and unnecessary court involvement.

2. Create and Fund a Revocable Living Trust

A revocable living trust is one of the most powerful tools for avoiding probate.

But creating trust is only the first step. Your assets must also be properly transferred into the trust. This is called funding the trust. When done correctly, your trust can hold your property while still allowing you to stay in control during your lifetime.

After you pass away, your chosen successor trustee can manage and distribute your assets according to your wishes, without requiring the same court-supervised probate process.

This can save your loved ones time, money, and emotional stress.

3. Own Property Jointly With Rights of Survivorship

Another way to avoid probate is through joint ownership with rights of survivorship.

When property is owned this way, the surviving owner automatically receives the deceased owner’s share. This can apply to certain homes, bank accounts, or other property depending on how ownership is structured.

However, joint ownership is not the right choice for everyone. It can create tax, creditor, and control issues if it is not handled carefully.

The best plan depends on your family, your assets, and your goals.

Probate can be costly, but with the right strategy, your loved ones do not have to face unnecessary delays and expenses.

If you live in Arizona, call (480) 719-7333 today and let’s create a plan that protects your family, your wishes, and your legacy.

06/10/2026

Your private life should not become public record.

Probate can expose more than just assets. It can bring sensitive family matters, personal relationships, and private details into the public eye when there is no proper plan in place.

A trust helps keep your affairs private, your wishes clear, and your loved ones protected from unnecessary stress, confusion, and public court involvement.

If you live in Arizona, call (480) 719-7333 today and let’s create a strategy that protects your privacy, your family, and your future for generations to come.

06/09/2026

The Trust Mistake That Can Send Your Family Back to Court

Creating a trust is a step toward protecting your family, your privacy, and everything you worked so hard to build. But one mistake can undo much of that planning and push your loved ones back into the court system.

That mistake is having an unfunded trust.

Many people believe that once they sign their revocable living trust, their estate plan is complete. The documents are done, the binder is on the shelf, and they feel protected. But a trust only works the way it was designed to work when your assets are properly connected to it.

If your home, bank accounts, investment accounts, business interests, or other assets are still titled only in your personal name, those assets may still have to go through probate when you pass away.

And probate is exactly what many families are trying to avoid.

Probate can be expensive. It can take months. It can create stress during a painful time. And one of the biggest concerns is that probate is public. That means information about your estate, your beneficiaries, and who received what may become part of the public record.

For families who value privacy, that can feel deeply uncomfortable.

It can also create very real risks. Beneficiaries may be contacted by nosey neighbors, predators, scammers, or organizations looking for money. Instead of receiving their inheritance privately and peacefully, your loved ones may find themselves exposed when they should be protected.

Funding your trust helps prevent that.

Funding simply means transferring certain assets from your individual name into the name of your trust. It may also mean updating beneficiary designations so they work together with your estate plan.

Assets that may need attention include real estate, bank accounts, investment accounts, life insurance, business interests, and other property. The right strategy depends on your situation, your assets, and your goals.

The key is this: signing the trust is not the finish line.

A trust sitting unfunded on a shelf may give you a false sense of security. A properly funded trust can help your family avoid unnecessary court involvement, protect privacy, and make the process smoother for the people you love most.

If you already have a trust, now is the time to ask an important question:

Is it actually funded?

If you are not sure what should go into your trust, what should stay out, or whether your current plan is set up correctly, we can help.

If you live in Arizona, call (480) 719-7333 today and let’s make sure your trust does what it was created to do: protect your family, preserve your privacy, and keep your loved ones out of court.

06/04/2026

Cryptocurrency has created incredible opportunities for wealth building, but it has also created one of the biggest estate planning risks of the modern age. Millions of dollars in digital assets are lost every year simply because families do not know where wallets, passcodes, or private keys are stored. Without proper planning, your loved ones could be locked out of your digital wealth forever.

Unlike traditional bank accounts, cryptocurrency does not come with a customer service hotline that can simply reset a password. If access information is lost, the assets may become permanently unreachable. That is why cryptocurrency estate planning is no longer optional for serious investors. It is essential.

A strong estate plan should clearly identify all cryptocurrency holdings, including digital wallets, exchanges, and investment platforms. It should also specify who will inherit these assets and under what terms. Simply mentioning “crypto” in a will is not enough. The instructions must be clear, organized, and legally structured to avoid confusion or disputes among beneficiaries.

Security is another major concern. Private keys, wallet credentials, passcodes, recovery phrases, and two factor authentication methods should all be documented and stored securely. Without these details, even immediate family members may have no ability to recover the assets. Many investors spend years building digital wealth but fail to create a safe and accessible transfer plan for the people they care about most.

Some individuals also choose to work with trusted custodians or estate planning professionals to help manage access instructions securely. This can provide additional protection while ensuring heirs are not left overwhelmed during an already emotional time.

Cryptocurrency laws and tax regulations continue to evolve rapidly. What applies today may change tomorrow. Estate planning helps reduce uncertainty while preparing your family for potential tax obligations, compliance requirements, and legal responsibilities connected to digital assets. A properly structured plan can help preserve more of your wealth while minimizing unnecessary complications for your beneficiaries.

Your cryptocurrency portfolio may represent years of hard work, smart investing, and long term vision. Do not leave your family guessing, searching through devices, or struggling to recover assets during a difficult time. Protect your digital wealth with a plan designed for the future.

If you live in Arizona and want to secure your cryptocurrency, your family, and your legacy, call (480) 719-7333 today. The right estate plan can provide clarity, protection, and peace of mind for the people who matter most.

Life Planning Made Easier. Kierman Law focuses on estate planning, probate litigation, asset protection, and charitable giving.

06/03/2026

Too many people give out money, property, time, or trust too early… then live with the regret later.

What starts as love and generosity can quickly turn into financial stress, family conflict, or losing control over the wealth you worked your whole life to build.

Before you gift assets, transfer property, or make major financial decisions for loved ones, make sure you have a smart long term plan in place first.

Protect your wealth. Protect your family. Protect your legacy.

If you live in Arizona, call (480) 719-7333 today and let’s create a strategy that keeps your future secure for generations to come.

06/02/2026

Most cats spend their days sleeping in sunbeams, knocking things off tables, and demanding food at impossible hours.

Choupette did all of that too, except she did it while living in the world of private jets, designer campaigns, luxury apartments, and one of the most iconic fashion empires ever created.

And somehow, the world became completely obsessed with her.

When legendary fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld passed away in 2019, rumors immediately exploded online. Who would inherit his fortune? Which celebrities, friends, models, or executives would receive a piece of his estimated millions?

But among all the names floating around, one stood out the most.

His cat.

Not just any cat, either. Choupette, the blue cream Birman with icy blue eyes and a personality so glamorous that people often joked she lived better than most humans.

And honestly… they were probably right.

According to stories shared over the years, Choupette had personal caretakers, custom dishes, beauty routines, luxury travel accommodations, and even her own social media fame. Karl Lagerfeld openly admitted his deep love for her, once saying she was “the center of the world.” He even joked that if marriage between humans and animals were legal, he would marry her.

At first, many people thought the headlines were just another strange celebrity story. But years later, fascination around Choupette still hasn’t disappeared.

Why?

Because beneath the luxury and absurdity is something surprisingly human.

Karl Lagerfeld was known for being brilliant, disciplined, mysterious, and often emotionally guarded. Yet whenever he spoke about Choupette, people saw a softer side of him. The cold fashion icon suddenly became relatable. He wasn’t talking about couture collections or billion dollar brands. He was talking about love, companionship, comfort, and loyalty.

And maybe that is why the story continues to capture attention.

In a world obsessed with success, power, and money, people are strangely comforted by the idea that one of fashion’s greatest icons found genuine happiness in the company of a cat.

Even now, years after Lagerfeld’s passing, questions surrounding his estate remain complicated and largely private under French law. Reports continue to circulate about legal disputes, inheritance claims, and unanswered questions surrounding his fortune. Yet despite all the speculation, one thing seems clear:

Choupette remains part of his legacy.

What makes this story even more fascinating is how Choupette evolved from a beloved pet into a global cultural symbol. She appeared in fashion campaigns, inspired beauty collections, attended photoshoots, and became recognizable far beyond the fashion world. Millions of people who knew little about haute couture still knew the name Choupette.

That is incredibly rare.

Most people spend their entire lives trying to build a memorable legacy. Choupette somehow managed to do it while taking naps.

And perhaps there is an unexpected lesson hidden inside this extravagant story.

Estate planning is not only about wealth. It is about care.

It is about making sure the people, causes, pets, and values you love are protected long after you are gone. Whether your estate is modest or massive, having a clear plan can prevent confusion, conflict, and unnecessary stress for the people left behind.

Karl Lagerfeld’s story may seem glamorous and extreme, but it reminds us of something deeply important: the things we love most deserve intentional planning.

Because someday, your loved ones should be focused on remembering your life… not struggling to untangle your wishes.

And honestly, if a cat can inspire the world to think about legacy planning, maybe that conversation is more important than people realize.

If you live in Arizona, now is the perfect time to create a thoughtful estate plan that protects your family, your assets, and the future you worked hard to build.

Call today at (480) 719-7333 and start building a legacy designed to last for generations.

05/29/2026

I am truly honored to be featured as one of the Women to Watch in the latest issue of So Scottsdale.

Being included alongside so many accomplished women is both humbling and meaningful. Taking time to reflect on my journey reminded me how much of my career has been shaped by the people around me, including my family, mentors, colleagues, and clients.

In the article, I share how my own family's experience with estate planning influenced the path I chose and continues to shape the way I approach my work today. What began as a personal lesson became a calling to help others navigate difficult decisions with clarity and confidence.

I am grateful to the So Scottsdale team for the opportunity to share my story, and I am thankful for everyone who has been part of the journey.

If you'd like to read the article, you can find it here:
https://www.soscottsdale.com/index #/women-to-watch-2026/

05/29/2026

Few estate planning decisions create more tension within a family than the decision to disinherit a child. While much attention is often focused on the child being excluded, the siblings who remain included in the estate plan frequently find themselves carrying an emotional burden as well.

If your parent has chosen to leave a sibling out of their estate plan, you may feel caught in the middle. You may understand and respect your parent's wishes, yet still feel compassion for your sibling's disappointment, frustration, or anger. The situation can become even more difficult if your parent has named you as the executor, trustee, or personal representative responsible for carrying out those wishes.

Many people are surprised to learn that adult children generally do not have a legal right to inherit from a parent. In most cases, a parent has the freedom to decide who receives their assets and who does not. However, simply leaving a child out of a will or trust is not always enough. Estate planning documents should clearly state that the omission is intentional. Without proper language, a disinherited child may later argue that they were accidentally overlooked, creating unnecessary legal disputes and delays.

Clear, updated estate planning documents are one of the most effective ways to reduce future conflict. A well-crafted plan should include explicit language regarding the parent's intentions, properly coordinated beneficiary designations, and supporting documentation that demonstrates the parent acted voluntarily and with full mental capacity. In some situations, a no-contest clause may also help discourage unfounded challenges to the estate plan.

It is important to remember that disinheritance does not always have to be an all-or-nothing decision. Many parents choose alternatives that allow them to address concerns while still providing some level of support. Trusts can be structured with conditions related to age, education, employment, or other milestones. Assets may also be directed to grandchildren or distributed gradually over time rather than being given outright.

For the sibling left in the middle, communication, preparation, and professional guidance can make a significant difference. While you cannot control how others react, a carefully designed estate plan can help reduce misunderstandings, preserve family relationships, and ensure that your parent's wishes are honored as intended.

Estate planning is about more than distributing assets. It is about protecting loved ones, minimizing conflict, and creating a clear roadmap for future generations. Thoughtful planning today can help families avoid costly disputes and unnecessary heartache tomorrow.

If you live in Arizona, call (480) 719-7333 today to schedule a consultation and create an estate plan that protects your wealth, preserves family harmony, and safeguards your legacy for generations to come.

05/28/2026

The Largest Wealth Transfer in History Is Coming...

Over $90 TRILLION is expected to pass from one generation to the next over the next 20 years.

But here's the shocking truth:

Most family wealth disappears within 1 to 1.5 generations.

Why? Because wealth without preparation often becomes a burden instead of a blessing.

A trust shouldn't just transfer money. It should transfer values, responsibility, and a legacy that lasts.

The right trust can help ensure your heirs are prepared, protected, and positioned for long-term success.

Don't leave your family's future to chance.

If you live in Arizona, call (480) 719-7333 today and let's create a plan that protects your wealth, your family, and your legacy for generations to come.

05/27/2026

Summer Travel & Vacation Estate Planning Checklist

Before You Leave Town, Make Sure Your Family Is Protected

Summer vacations are meant for relaxation and making memories. Before heading to the airport, your favorite beach destination, a cruise, or an overseas adventure, take a few moments to ensure your legal and financial affairs are organized in case of an unexpected emergency.

Review Your Estate Planning Documents

Make sure the following documents are up to date and accurately reflect your current wishes:

• Revocable Living Trust
• Last Will and Testament
• Financial Power of Attorney
• Medical Power of Attorney or Health Care Directive
• HIPAA Authorization
• Guardian Nominations for Minor Children

Ask yourself:

• Have there been any births, deaths, marriages, divorces, or relocations since these documents were created?
• Are the individuals you have named still the best choices for these roles?
• Have your assets, financial circumstances, or family situation changed significantly?

Let Someone Know Where Important Documents Are Located

In an emergency, your loved ones should know:

• Where your original estate planning documents are stored
• How to access those documents
• Who your attorney is
• Who your financial advisor is
• Who your CPA or accountant is
• How to quickly reach key decision makers
Consider providing:
• A printed emergency information sheet
• Secure digital copies of important documents
• Clearly labeled emergency contacts in your phone

Ensure Powers of Attorney Are Available Electronically

Emergencies can happen while you are away from home. If a trusted family member suddenly needs access to your legal documents, they should be able to obtain them quickly.

Before traveling:

• Store secure PDF copies in cloud storage
• Make sure trusted individuals know how to access them
• Consider using password manager emergency access features
• Keep electronic copies available through a secure app or on your phone

A document locked away in a home safe may not be helpful during an emergency in another state or country.

Review Temporary Guardianship Plans for Minor Children

If you are traveling without your children:

• Confirm who would care for them in an emergency
• Leave caregivers with insurance cards, medical information, emergency contacts, medication details, and your travel itinerary

If your children are traveling without you:

• Consider temporary medical authorization documents for grandparents, relatives, or other caregivers

Review Beneficiary Designations

Take time to review the beneficiary designations on:

• Retirement accounts
• Life insurance policies
• Transfer on Death (TOD) accounts
• Payable on Death (POD) accounts

Remember, beneficiary designations often override instructions contained in your will or trust.

Verify Asset Ownership and Titling

Confirm that:

• Assets intended for your trust are properly titled in the trust's name
• Real estate ownership is accurate
• Business interests and LLC memberships are properly assigned
• Vacation homes and out-of-state properties are coordinated with your overall estate plan

Prepare for Medical Emergencies While Traveling

This is especially important for international travel, cruises, adventure travel, and older travelers.

Carry or have access to:

• Health insurance information
• Travel insurance information
• Current medication lists
• Physician contact information
• Emergency contact information
• Copies of identification and passports
• Advance directives and medical documents

Create a Digital Emergency Access Plan

Many important assets and records now exist online.

Organize information regarding:

• Password access instructions
• Two factor authentication backup methods
• Access to phones, tablets, and computers
• Online banking and financial accounts
• Cryptocurrency and digital assets
• Cloud storage accounts containing photos and documents

Have a Conversation With Your Family

One of the biggest challenges families face during an emergency is confusion.

Make sure your trusted loved ones know:

• Who is responsible for making decisions
• Where important documents are located
• Your general wishes and preferences
• Who should be contacted first in an emergency
Even a brief conversation can prevent unnecessary stress, confusion, and conflict.

Schedule an Estate Plan Review

Many people update their passports, travel plans, and summer wardrobes more frequently than they update their estate plans.

If your estate planning documents are more than three to five years old, or if your life circumstances have changed, summer is an excellent time to schedule a review.

A Little Planning Creates Tremendous Peace of Mind

The purpose of estate planning is not to focus on the worst-case scenario. It is to make difficult situations easier for the people you care about most.

Before you leave town this summer, take a few moments to ensure your loved ones can access the right documents, information, and decision makers if the unexpected occurs.

Safe travels, and enjoy your summer with greater peace of mind.