Hunt & Taylor Law Group, LLC Hunt & Taylor Law Group, LLC 2026-06-16T09:03:29Z https://www.huntandtaylor.com/feed/atom/ WordPress /wp-content/uploads/sites/1303085/2022/09/cropped-ID-image-32x32.jpg On Behalf of Hunt & Taylor Law Group, LLC <![CDATA[Protecting your family from probate court through asset titling]]> https://www.huntandtaylor.com/?p=47572 2026-04-30T07:41:10Z 2026-04-30T07:41:10Z Deeds and beneficiary designations are helpful tools Property and vehicle owners in Georgia can hold title as joint tenants with rights of survivorship. A spouse or adult child living with a parent as a caregiver can become a co-owner who automatically inherits the other owner’s interest in the property at the time of their passing. The same is true for a vehicle owned jointly before the primary owner’s death. It is possible to make similar arrangements for financial accounts, including retirement savings accounts, investment accounts and standard checking/savings accounts. Transfer-on-death and payable-on-death beneficiary designations allow for the prompt transfer of ownership after a current account holder dies. This arrangement helps bypass the challenges of making a child or other family member a co-owner. Adding another adult to an account may allow them to use the contents as they see fit, which could lead to financial misconduct. There is also the possibility of creditors making a claim against the account in the event of a debt-related lawsuit, the loss of step-up opportunities, the risk of ineligibility for state benefits and even unequal inheritances to consider. Transfer-on-death arrangements only transfer ownership after the current account holder dies, thereby allowing them to retain sole ownership while they are still alive. This approach is helpful, but it does require occasional reviews. Out-of-date beneficiary designations that contradict a will can leave people with a false sense of security regarding their estate plan. People may need to name contingent beneficiaries, integrate a use per stirpes designation to allow an account to pass to a beneficiary’s heirs, avoid naming minors as direct beneficiaries and ensure their filed paperwork aligns with will and trust paperwork. For those with large estates, complex assets or contentious family dynamics, a revocable living trust may be a better solution. The assets owned and managed by the trust can bypass probate court, and beneficiaries can receive support without losing eligibility for state benefits or squandering a lump-sum inheritance. Working with an experienced estate planning attorney can help people maximize what their loved ones inherit and minimize what resources must pass through probate court. Changing ownership of assets currently or arranging for a posthumous change of ownership can be a useful probate avoidance strategy in this regard.]]> On Behalf of Hunt & Taylor Law Group, LLC <![CDATA[How can I make sure I account for all of my parents’ assets after they die?]]> https://www.huntandtaylor.com/?p=47565 2026-03-31T21:19:37Z 2026-03-31T21:19:37Z a loved one dies those left behind must navigate feelings of grief while also dealing with their estate. This can require a need to go through accounts and insurance policies, dividends and even an old school review of boxes of paperwork. It is common for the process to stall while looking for and organizing assets. The goal in this situation seems simple: locate everything, document authority then move assets into the estate administration process. Unfortunately, the reality can be much more complex. The following will provide some tips to help ease the process and better ensure everything is accounted for. 

Start with legal authority and a working file

Financial institutions rarely release information without proof of authority. For a probate estate, that usually means letters testamentary or letters of administration. For a trust, that means a certificate of trust plus trustee identification. Gather death certificates, prior addresses, Social Security number and create an asset log with columns for institution, account type, last known address, status and documentation requested.

Forgotten bank accounts and investment accounts

Begin with a review of mail, email, tax returns, and prior bank statements to make sure everything is accounted for. Review the decedent’s last two years of tax forms like Form 1040. Look for interest, dividends, capital gains and IRA distributions. Those lines point to specific institutions, then to specific accounts. It is also helpful to check for 1099-INT, 1099-DIV, 1099-R, 1099-B, K-1 forms. Before expanding the search, confirm the key asset categories:
  • Checking, savings, money market, CDs  
  • Brokerage accounts, DRIPs, mutual funds  
  • IRAs, 401(k)s, pensions, annuities  
  • Life insurance, HSA accounts, employer benefits
After putting together a list, request date-of-death statements, beneficiary designations and payable-on-death instructions. Beneficiary assets often pass outside probate though they still matter for tax reporting and equalization among heirs.

Safe-deposit boxes and the “where did the documents go” problem

A safe-deposit box can hold wills and deeds as well as assets like stock certificates, jewelry and bonds. Access rules vary by state. Some states allow limited access to locate a will, others require court authority. It is wise to ask each bank where the decedent banked whether a box exists. If so, check for a box key and request the bank’s procedures in writing.

Unclaimed property searches and escheat

Unclaimed property laws require financial institutions to turn dormant assets over to the state after a period of inactivity. That creates a second path for “unclaimed money after death.” Search each state where the decedent lived, worked, owned property or received mail. After submission, expect delays. States often request notarized forms and additional evidence before they will process the request. Hidden assets can cause difficulties when distributing an estate after a loved one dies. A review including disciplined search, proper authority documents, written requests to institutions and statewide unclaimed property checks can turn a fragmented financial picture into a complete estate map. Those with complex estates can benefit from additional help. Legal counsel with experience in this area of law can better ensure all assets are accounted for before closing the estate. ]]> On Behalf of Hunt & Taylor Law Group, LLC <![CDATA[Helping kids recover after a car accident]]> https://www.huntandtaylor.com/?p=47562 2026-02-19T12:03:49Z 2026-02-24T13:00:09Z What to watch out for after a crash Children process trauma differently than adults. Some speak up right away, while others become quiet or show subtle changes in behavior. Symptoms also do not always appear at the scene of the crash. They may develop over several days, which makes close observation important. Common things to watch out for include:
  • Headaches, dizziness or nausea
  • Sensitivity to light or noise
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Irritability or withdrawal
  • Difficulty concentrating or falling grades
These symptoms may signal a concussion or emotional stress related to the accident, and even mild concerns warrant medical attention. A timely evaluation not only helps guide treatment and monitor recovery, but it also establishes a documented timeline of care. That record can become important if questions later arise about insurance coverage or responsibility for the crash.

Supporting your child at school

Recovery does not stop after the first appointment, and many students need short-term adjustments when they return to class. Open communication with teachers and administrators can ease that transition and ensure the school understands your child’s medical needs. A student healing from a concussion, for example, may require a lighter workload for a period of time, extended deadlines or scheduled rest breaks during the day. Some children also benefit from limits on screen use until symptoms improve. When families and schools coordinate early and consistently, students are less likely to experience academic setbacks or unnecessary stress during recovery.

Talking with your child at home

Support at home plays an equally important role. Children look to their parents for reassurance after a frightening event. Explaining medical follow-up in age-appropriate language can reduce anxiety about appointments and treatment. Younger children usually need simple explanations and reassurance that doctors help people heal. Teenagers tend to respond better to straightforward conversations about symptoms and expected timelines. Encourage your child to share how they feel, both physically and emotionally. Ongoing dialogue helps you spot changes early and reinforces a sense of safety.

Protecting your child’s health and future

A car accident can affect more than a child’s physical health. It can disrupt school performance and alter their sense of security. Careful monitoring, consistent medical care and strong communication with educators can support a steadier recovery. In some cases, families encounter disagreements about medical expenses or the long-term impact of an injury. When that happens, experienced legal guidance can help address those concerns and work toward a resolution.  ]]> On Behalf of Hunt & Taylor Law Group, LLC <![CDATA[Breaking down the time and costs of probate in Hall County]]> https://www.huntandtaylor.com/?p=47545 2025-10-01T09:48:07Z 2025-10-01T09:48:07Z How long does probate take? An average probate case in Georgia takes between six months to a year, longer for large estates. The following factors can affect the timeline:
  • The availability of a valid will
  • Ease of locating heirs and beneficiaries
  • Number of creditors contesting debts or filing claims
  • The Probate court’s caseload
If there are no disputes, the probate should move smoothly. If there are, it may take years to complete.

What are the costs associated with probate?

The more complicated the case is, the more expensive the process gets. As a general guideline, you should anticipate expenses such as:
  • Court filing fees: This costs a few hundred dollars depending on the type of petition filed.
  • Executor or administrator expenses: This covers estate management costs like accounting or postage but is typically reimbursable.
  • Attorney’s fees: The more comprehensive the legal assistance, the more expensive it is. Contested estates can go on for years, which can make these fees higher.
  • Other costs: Prepare to pay for property appraisals, tax filings and publication fees.
Some families attempt probate without a lawyer and end up getting legal help anyway because of how overwhelming the process is. So do not make that mistake and just consult an attorney right away.

How to prepare for probate

Make sure you have a copy of all the documents needed. This includes the will (if the deceased left one), death certificate, complete list of assets and any known debts. The sooner you start, the sooner the family can move forward.

Do not delay

It may feel like rushing is disrespectful to the loved one you lost but know that they would want you to find closure and stability. With legal guidance, you can conclude the entire process as soon as possible. The timeline and costs vary, but having a lawyer helping you can make all the difference.]]> On Behalf of Hunt & Taylor Law Group, LLC <![CDATA[5 common probate nightmares, and how to prevent them]]> https://www.huntandtaylor.com/?p=47535 2025-08-18T17:22:12Z 2025-08-18T17:22:12Z When Linda’s father passed away unexpectedly, she thought the hardest part would be grieving. Instead, she found herself in a tangled mess of legal paperwork, court dates and bitter arguments with siblings she had once been close to. As assets went into probate, old debts surfaced and legal fees piled up because his will hadn’t been updated in over 15 years.  Stories like Linda’s are more common than most people realize; probate can blindside families during already difficult times, bringing financial stress and emotional turmoil. Many assume they’re protected simply by having a will, but without proper planning, probate can turn into a nightmare.

1. Heirs fighting over assets

It’s not uncommon for siblings and relatives to clash over sentimental items. Disagreements can escalate into full-blown court battles when wills are vague or missing. Relationships that took a lifetime to build can be destroyed in months. Probate opens the door to challenges that can tear apart even close-knit families.

2. Hidden debts wiping out inheritance

Many people are unaware that creditors can legally claim an estate during probate. Heirs often expect a certain inheritance, only to find the estate significantly reduced or completely drained. Without knowing what debts exist, families are left scrambling to respond to demands from creditors.

3. Long delays tying up the estate

Even in straightforward cases, probate can take six months to a year, or longer. During this time, homes may sit vacant and bills may go unpaid. These delays add stress and prolong closure for grieving families.

4. Costly court and legal fees

Probate comes with unavoidable costs that can eat up a significant portion of what the deceased hoped to pass on. For smaller estates, this could mean there’s little or nothing left after probate concludes.

5. The wrong people inheriting

When someone dies without a will, or with an outdated or unclear one, the court decides who inherits. This can lead to unintended people receiving assets or rightful heirs being excluded. Ex-spouses or estranged family members can end up with a share. 

How to prevent these nightmares

Families should make active efforts to keep estate documents updated after major life changes to help ensure wishes stay current. Families can also bypass probate by:
  • Naming beneficiaries on accounts
  • Using joint ownership
  • Adding payable-on-death designations  
These steps simplify the process and protect loved ones from unnecessary stress. With thoughtful legal guidance during estate planning, families help ensure they are prepared for probate as opposed to the process taking them by surprise. Download our free probate checklist or schedule a no-cost consultation to get started. ]]> On Behalf of Hunt & Taylor Law Group, LLC <![CDATA[7 costly estate planning mistakes, and how you can avoid them]]> https://www.huntandtaylor.com/?p=47533 2026-05-28T18:49:28Z 2025-08-18T17:19:29Z Did you know that over half of Americans don’t have a will or any form of estate plan in place? It’s an unsettling statistic, especially considering that estate planning goes beyond passing on wealth; it’s more about safeguarding the futures of your loved ones. Too often, families find themselves overwhelmed and unprepared after the death or incapacity of a loved one. Even the most close-knit families can face confusion and costly legal battles when clear instructions are missing. Luckily, these less-than-desirable outcomes are largely preventable with a thoughtful and well-executed estate plan.
Talk to a local estate planning attorney today. [nap_names id="FIRM-NAME-1"] provides friendly, experienced counsel for estate planning, real estate, business matters, probate, contracts, and litigation. Partners Donald Hunt and Ralph Taylor each have more than 35 years of experience. Call [nap_phone id="LOCAL-CT-NUMBER-1"] for your free consultation.

1. Not having a will or trust

When someone passes without a will, the state decides who gets what. Worse, it may result in your assets being distributed in ways you never intended. 

2. Forgetting to update beneficiaries

Life changes, yet many people brush off changing beneficiary designations on retirement accounts or insurance policies. This can result in an ex-spouse or estranged relative receiving your assets. 

3. Assuming “Everything will just go to my spouse or kids”

In reality, state laws often divide assets in ways that surprise families. For instance, a portion may go to surviving parents or siblings. Relying on assumptions can leave your family unprepared.

4. Not planning for incapacity

If you become incapacitated due to illness or injury, who will manage your finances or make healthcare decisions? Powers of attorney and healthcare directives are critical tools for helping to ensure someone you trust can step in.

5. Overlooking digital assets

Online bank accounts, social media profiles, digital photos and cryptocurrencies are often overlooked in traditional estate plans. Without proper documentation, these assets can become inaccessible or lost forever.

6. Ignoring tax implications

In the absence of an estate plan, taxes can take a significant bite out of what you leave behind. Whether it’s federal estate taxes or state-level inheritance taxes, estate planning can help identify strategies to reduce the tax burden.

7. DIY wills that don’t hold up in court

While online templates may seem convenient, they often lack state-specific requirements. Courts may find them invalid, leaving your estate in limbo. 

How to avoid these mistakes

The best way to avoid these pitfalls is by:
  • Keeping your documents updated
  • Revisit them after major life events
  • Communicate your wishes with your loved ones 
These steps go a long way in helping to ensure your family is protected. It’s never too early to enlist dedicated legal support and start planning for the future. Reach out to us to schedule your complimentary estate planning consultation.]]> On Behalf of Hunt & Taylor Law Group, LLC <![CDATA[Closing 101: 5 steps to owning a house in Georgia]]> https://www.huntandtaylor.com/?p=47485 2024-09-05T19:04:02Z 2024-09-05T19:03:05Z closing process in Georgia.

Signing the contract

The closing process starts when you and the seller sign the final purchase and sale contract. This contract outlines essential terms such as the purchase price, earnest money, closing date and contingencies. Once signed, you pay the earnest money, which a real estate agent or the closing attorney holds. The contract then goes to the closing attorney and your lender.

Home inspection

During a due diligence period, you can inspect the property thoroughly. Hiring a professional home inspector is recommended. They will then provide a detailed report on the property's condition. If the inspection reveals any issues, you can negotiate repairs, a price adjustment or even terminate the contract and get your earnest money back.

Property appraisal

After the due diligence period, your lender will order a property appraisal to determine its market value. If the property appraises for less than the purchase price, your lender may refuse to approve the loan. Including an appraisal contingency in your contract can protect you in this scenario, allowing you to back out without losing your earnest money.

Title search

The closing attorney conducts a title search to ensure no impediments exist to transferring the property to you. The attorney prepares a title commitment for the lender and you, outlining the conditions for issuing title insurance. The attorney also handles title clearance, which entails resolving any outstanding debts or liens on the property before closing.

Closing ceremony

Once your loan is cleared to close, the attorney schedules the ceremony. Three business days before closing, your lender provides a disclosure detailing your loan terms and closing costs. Review this document carefully. At the closing ceremony, you will sign the necessary documents, and the attorney will record the deed and the lender’s security deed. The process usually takes about an hour.

Do I need an attorney to close on my house?

Yes, in Georgia, a licensed attorney must oversee the closing of all real estate transactions. Although the closing attorney often represents the lender, they will explain all documents to you and the seller and treat both parties fairly. If any issues arise, the attorney addresses them to ensure a smooth transaction. Choosing the right real estate agent, lender and closing attorney can make all the difference. By understanding these steps and knowing what to expect, you can confidently approach the closing process, ready to enjoy your new home.]]> On Behalf of Hunt & Taylor Law Group, LLC <![CDATA[3 medical issues people can address in an advance directive]]> https://www.huntandtaylor.com/?p=47475 2024-06-14T11:19:03Z 2024-06-14T11:19:03Z The designation of a healthcare agent One of the most important inclusions in an advance directive is the nomination of a trusted individual to make medical choices on someone's behalf. People used to draft separate documents, including medical powers of attorney, for this purpose. However, there's now space within the standard advance directive form in Georgia to nominate someone to make healthcare choices on behalf of the principal drafting the documents.

The care preferences of an individual

An advance directive can provide very clear statements about an individual's medical preferences. Perhaps they feel very strongly about not receiving any medication developed using stem cell research. Maybe their religion forbids blood transfusions. These crucial details about care preferences and expectations are important inclusions in advance directives. They can guide healthcare professionals and family members who may struggle to recall someone's preferences during an emergency.

What happens at the end of treatment

Some people would prefer to have medical professionals use life-sustaining technology temporarily when their health declines to allow for an anatomical gift. Such gifts can make a direct positive impact on those struggling with medical conditions. People can also provide guidance about the final disposition of their bodies and whether or not to perform an autopsy after they die. As difficult as it can be to consider, addressing the possibility of an incapacitating emergency is a smart estate planning move. Those with thorough plans in place can feel confident about receiving appropriate care regardless of their circumstances.]]> On Behalf of Hunt & Taylor Law Group, LLC <![CDATA[The risks posed by ‘love letters’ from home buyers]]> https://www.huntandtaylor.com/?p=47444 2024-01-18T23:37:47Z 2024-01-18T23:04:05Z Understanding fair housing laws Buyers' love letters may unintentionally lead to violations of fair housing laws. Such laws are meant to prevent discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status or disability. When sellers receive personal information about buyers, the seller may unconsciously make decisions based on these protected characteristics, even if the seller didn't intend to discriminate. If that type of unintended discrimination occurs, it can still lead to considerable legal issues for the seller.

Maintaining objectivity in the sale process

Another reason to discourage love letters is to maintain objectivity in the sale process. The focus should be on the tangible aspects of the bid, such as the offer price, financial qualifications and the terms of the sale. It is entirely understandable to want your property to go to someone you like and trust. Just be aware of the potential legal and financial ramifications of selling on the basis of the buyer's personal attributes rather than the strength of the bid. For more on the many legal issues involved in residential real estate sales and purchases, please see our overview of real estate law in Georgia.]]> On Behalf of Hunt & Taylor Law Group, LLC <![CDATA[Can someone lose Georgia real property to adverse possession?]]> https://www.huntandtaylor.com/?p=47442 2026-05-28T18:41:31Z 2023-12-19T02:26:27Z Talk to a local real estate attorney today. [nap_names id="FIRM-NAME-1"] provides friendly, experienced counsel for estate planning, real estate, business matters, probate, contracts, personal injury, and litigation. Partners Donald Hunt and Ralph Taylor each have more than 35 years of experience. Call [nap_phone id="LOCAL-CT-NUMBER-1"] for your free consultation.

Georgia recognizes adverse possession claims

The bad news for Georgia property owners is that those who take unofficial possession of the property might eventually try to claim legal ownership of it. Adverse possession claims require civil court proceedings, and those proceedings might result in the courts declaring the squatter the new owner of the property. Fortunately, the requirements for adverse possession claims are relatively difficult for people to meet. Specifically, the law generally requires that they maintain regular, uninterrupted possession of the property for 20 years. They need to live at the property and openly use it without anyone evicting them or living on the property while the squatter isn't there. For example, someone breaking into a cabin that people use as a summer house during the winter months would not be able to claim adverse possession because they stay there for a few months each year when the owner does not occupy the property.

How can people defend against adverse possession claims?

The simplest way to prevent the loss of real property through adverse possession proceedings is to regularly inspect real property holdings. Even vacant land could be subject to adverse possession claims by those living there illegally or encroaching on the boundary from a neighboring parcel. Property owners who regularly inspect their holdings can quickly uncover signs of unauthorized possession and address the issue. If the adverse possession claim actually goes to court, people may need to gather proof that the plaintiff attempting to claim possession of the property does not meet all of the statutory requirements for an adverse possession claim. There is a lot to potentially lose when someone else tries to secure ownership of vacant land or residential property in Georgia. As such, learning more about the law and acting to protect personal investments with the assistance of an attorney may benefit those with real property holdings.]]>