Guardianship and Conservatorship in Virginia: What Families Often Learn Too Late

Families usually learn about guardianship and conservatorship during a stressful season. A parent has dementia and can no longer manage bills. A spouse is hospitalized and cannot sign paperwork. An adult child with a disability turns 18, and the family realizes the rules have changed. The common thread is not care because the family caresContinue reading "Guardianship and Conservatorship in Virginia: What Families Often Learn Too Late"

Will-Based Plan or Trust-Based Plan: How to Choose the Right Path in Virginia

One of the first questions families ask when they begin estate planning is simple: “Do we need a will or a trust?” It’s a fair question. Most people have heard of both, but they’re not always sure what each one actually does. They know they want their wishes honored, their children protected, and their lovedContinue reading "Will-Based Plan or Trust-Based Plan: How to Choose the Right Path in Virginia"

Long-Term Care Planning in Virginia: A Calm Starting Point for Families

It often begins with a phone call that changes your calendar: a fall, a new diagnosis, or a caregiver who is burned out. Suddenly, the question is not theoretical; it’s urgent: “What do we do next, and how do we pay for it?” If your family is facing long-term care planning in Virginia, you’re notContinue reading "Long-Term Care Planning in Virginia: A Calm Starting Point for Families"

Beneficiary Designations and Minor Children: Why Naming Your Child Can Create Court Oversight

For many families, the first estate planning step is not a will or a trust. It’s a form. You open a retirement account, start life insurance through work, or set up a bank account, and the paperwork asks who should receive the funds if you die. You name your child because that feels loving andContinue reading "Beneficiary Designations and Minor Children: Why Naming Your Child Can Create Court Oversight"

How Does the Probate Process Work When There Is No Will?

When a loved one passes away without a will, families are often left with questions about what happens next. While the situation can feel uncertain, Virginia law provides a clear framework for handling estates when there is no will. Understanding how probate and intestacy work can help ease confusion during an already difficult time. WhatContinue reading "How Does the Probate Process Work When There Is No Will?"

We’re Growing — and We’re Grateful

At Mathews Law, growth has never been about becoming bigger for the sake of being bigger. It has always been about serving our clients well — with care, clarity, and intention. Over the past several years, we have been honored to work with so many wonderful individuals and families in our community. Because of thatContinue reading "We’re Growing — and We’re Grateful"

Why Your Family Needs a Mission Statement

You probably know you “should” have a will or a trust, but have you ever talked with your family about why your money exists in the first place? A simple family mission statement can dramatically increase the odds that your wealth and your relationships stay intact for generations. Read more...

What to Do When You’re Ready to Create Your Estate Plan but Your Spouse Isn’t

It’s heartbreaking when one spouse is eager to protect the family through estate planning and the other resists. Here’s what to do when your partner isn’t on board. Read more...