The Myth
Monday, June 15, 2026 is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. While there are many forms of abuse, one that we see in estate planning is financial abuse. This often comes in the form of undue influence. This article …
MYTH #3: Deathbed Transfers are Automatically Invalid
The Myth
Deathbed transfers — gifts, property transfers, or changes to wills and trusts made shortly before someone’s death — are automatically invalid. This belief suggests that such transfers are inherently suspicious, legally unenforceable, or easily overturned in court due …
Myth #2: Estate Planning Lawyers Happily Make Hospital Visits
A popular misconception is that estate planning lawyers routinely—and even gladly—make hospital visits to draft or update legal documents such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and advance healthcare directives. Many people assume that lawyers view these visits as a …
Myth #1: Any Persuasion Equals Undue Influence
A common misconception in the context of estate planning is that any form of persuasion or influence over someone’s decisions automatically constitutes undue influence. This belief suggests that merely expressing an opinion, offering advice, or encouraging someone to make a …