Legal Lines News

Estate Planning and Elder Law

FEBRUARY 2026

Your Future Caregivers May Not Be Who You Think They Are

Whether you have already named a caregiver in your planning documents or you simply assume that someone will step in, that choice deserves more scrutiny than familiarity alone. Capability matters as much as preparation. Read more to learn that the right question is not only “Who loves me?” but “Who can realistically do this, for how long, and with what support?”

The Hidden Burden: What It Really Means to be an Executor (Personal Representative), Trustee, or Agent under a Power of Attorney

You may be familiar with fiduciaries in professional settings. A fiduciary is someone legally required to put another person’s interests ahead of their own.

What you may not know is that the people you name in your estate plan are held to the same legal standard. Read more to learn that the people you choose for these roles could face similar consequences if they are not properly prepared, and part of that preparation falls on you.

Backup Plans Are Loving Too: Why You Need Contingent Agents and Guardians

Real-life backups are contingent decision-makers designated in advance to step in if a primary decision-maker cannot serve. These contingents function much like backup quarterbacks: prepared to act quickly, often under pressure, and sometimes when the stakes are high. An estate plan that names only primary decision-makers may appear complete on paper. Read more to learn that without contingents, however, the plan lacks the depth needed to remain effective when circumstances change, much like a football team without a backup quarterback.

Protecting Your Home from Property Fraud: A Free Tool Worth Using


Dear Reader,


A good friend and fine realtor, Karen Lieff of Coldwell Banker Global Luxury, recently raised an important issue: property fraud in the context of dealing with a decedent’s real estate during the probate process.


Massachusetts registries of deeds have developed a Consumer Notification Service to help combat property and mortgage fraud related to real estate ownership. Although not every registry offers it, if you live in a county that does, it is well worth taking advantage of this free service.


Upcoming Webinars – Save Your Spot!



We all think we have all the time in the world… but planning ahead makes all the difference. Join us for our upcoming educational webinars designed to help you protect what matters most:


Estate Planning – We all think we have all the time in the world. Learn why planning now can provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones.


Probate: Understanding Probate – What You Need to Know – Get clear, practical insight into the probate process and how it may impact your family.


Long-Term Care: Protect Your Assets While Planning for Long-Term Care – Discover strategies to safeguard your assets while preparing for future care needs.


📅 Reserve your spot today: https://www.lanniklaw.com/events/


We look forward to seeing you there!

www.lanniklaw.com

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Needham, MA 02494

617-431-2669

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Mashpee, MA 02649

PH: 508-444-9445


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This information is for educational purposes only and cannot be considered legal advice, nor does the receipt of this newsletter create an attorney client relationship.