Blog
What Happens to Your Trust When You Move to Arizona From Another State?
Every year, thousands of people relocate to Arizona from states like California, Illinois, and New York — often bringing an estate plan they set up years, sometimes decades, ago. A common question we hear at Fountain Hills Law Firm is simple: "My trust was created in...
Will ALTCS Take My House?
One of the most common fears Arizona families express is: “If I go on ALTCS, will the state take my house?” The short answer is more nuanced than a simple yes or no. ALTCS does not seize your home while you are alive and living in it (or while certain family members...
What Is a Trump Account?
The "Trump Account" is a new type of tax-advantaged savings account created by Congress to encourage long-term saving for children. While the name has generated headlines, many parents and grandparents are wondering what these accounts actually are and how they work....
What to Do If a Veteran in Your Family Is Facing Criminal Charges
Finding out that a veteran you love — a spouse, a parent, an adult child — has been arrested is frightening, and it often comes with a particular kind of confusion. Maybe this is someone who served honorably, came home changed, and has been struggling quietly ever...
Can I Make Annual Gifts to Reduce My Taxable Estate?
Yes. Under federal gift-tax rules, you can give a certain amount each year to as many individuals as you wish without using any of your lifetime estate-and-gift-tax exemption and without filing a gift-tax return (in most cases). The annual gift-tax exclusion is...
Understanding ALTCS: Arizona’s Long-Term Care Safety Net
Long-term care is one of the largest unplanned expenses many Arizona families will ever face. Nursing home costs commonly run several thousand dollars per month. Assisted living and in-home care add up quickly too. Medicare covers only limited skilled care...
Resources Every Veteran Should Know About
Our nation's veterans have sacrificed greatly in service to our country. While military service may end, the transition to civilian life often brings new challenges involving healthcare, housing, employment, education, financial planning, and legal matters....
Can I Disinherit a Child in Arizona?
Yes—you can generally disinherit an adult child in Arizona. Arizona law gives broad freedom to decide who inherits your property. Adult children have no automatic right to a share of your estate. To do it effectively, the disinheritance should be clear and...
Miranda Rights Explained: Do Police Always Have to Read Them?
What Are Miranda Rights? Miranda rights protect individuals from self-incrimination during police interrogations. When Must Police Read Miranda Rights? Police must read Miranda rights before conducting a custodial interrogation. That means: You are in police custody...
What Can a Trustee Be Sued For?
Serving as a Trustee is a serious responsibility. Trustees must manage trust assets according to the trust document and Arizona law while acting in the best interests of beneficiaries. Trustees may face lawsuits if beneficiaries believe the Trustee has breached...
Hurt by a Drunk or Distracted Driver in Arizona? You May Be Entitled to Punitive Damages
In Arizona, when a driver’s conduct is especially dangerous, the law allows juries to award punitive damages on top of your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. These extra damages are designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter others — and they can...
Charitable Remainder Trusts: Giving Back While Saving on Taxes
Some estate planning strategies allow individuals to support charitable causes while also creating financial benefits for themselves or their families. One example is a charitable remainder trust. A charitable remainder trust allows assets to be placed into a trust...
Choosing the Right Business Structure in Arizona
Starting a business in Arizona begins with selecting the right legal structure. Your choice can affect your liability, taxes, and ability to raise capital. This decision lays the foundation for how your business will operate, how profits will be taxed, and your...
If Something Happened to You Tomorrow, Who Could Legally Access Your Bank Account?
It’s an uncomfortable question — but an important one. If you were suddenly hospitalized or passed away tomorrow, who could legally access your bank account to pay your mortgage, cover funeral expenses, or keep your household running? Let’s walk through what actually...
Creditors and the Estate: What Debts Must Be Paid Before Heirs Inherit?
When someone passes away, their debts do not automatically disappear. During probate or trust administration, valid creditor claims may need to be addressed before assets are distributed to heirs. Common debts include mortgages, medical bills, taxes, credit cards,...
New Arizona Law Expands Property Tax Exemptions for Disabled Veterans
Effective beginning with Tax Year 2026, Arizona House Bill 2792 significantly expands property tax relief for disabled veterans and certain surviving spouses. If you are a veteran or the surviving spouse of a veteran, these changes could substantially reduce—or even...
How Long Does a Personal Injury Case Take in Arizona?
One of the most common questions after an accident is how long the legal process will take. The answer depends on several factors, including the severity of injuries, insurance negotiations, medical treatment, and whether litigation becomes necessary. Some personal...
Beneficiary Designation Mistakes That Override Your Will
Many people are surprised to learn that some assets pass outside of a will entirely. Retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and certain bank accounts often transfer directly to the named beneficiary, regardless of what the will says. This means outdated...
Irrevocable vs. Revocable Trusts: Choosing the Right One
Trusts can be powerful estate planning tools, but choosing the right type depends on a person’s goals and financial situation. A revocable trust allows the creator to maintain control over assets during their lifetime and make changes whenever needed. These trusts...
What Happens If You Can’t Afford an Attorney?
Many people avoid seeking legal help because they assume they cannot afford an attorney. Fortunately, there may be options available depending on the type of legal matter involved. In criminal cases, individuals charged with crimes may qualify for a court-appointed...
Do Common-Law Couples Have Estate Rights in Arizona
Many couples believe that living together for years automatically creates legal rights similar to marriage. However, Arizona does not recognize common-law marriage created within the state. This can create serious estate planning issues when one partner dies without...