For more information about the author, click to view their website: https://safeharborlawfirm.com/
One of the first questions many clients ask is whether they need a trust. It’s a great question, but it leads to another: What do you want your plan to accomplish? Let’s begin with a brief discussion of what trusts are and how they work. Then we’ll explore their benefits, which should give you a better idea of whether a trust is right for you and your family.
There are many different types of trusts and they can accomplish a wide range of goals. However, when most people think about trusts, the one they have in mind is a Revocable Living Trust.
A Revocable Living Trust is a legal document that allows the grantor (the person who creates the trust) to take personal assets and transfer them to the ownership of the trust. While the trust technically owns the assets, the grantor can continue to use them as he or she normally would.
When a Revocable Living Trust is established, the grantor names a trustee to manage the assets in the trust during the grantor’s lifetime. Most grantors name themselves as trustee, giving them complete control over the trust’s assets. Typically, a successor trustee is also named to take over management of the trust and distribute trust assets after the grantor passes away.
One of the primary benefits of a Revocable Living Trust is that it enables assets held in the trust to avoid probate after the grantor’s death. This allows trust assets to be distributed to heirs quickly. The costs associated with probating the estate are also avoided. In addition, a Revocable Living Trust protects the privacy of the grantor (and beneficiaries) because the trust’s provisions are confidential. A Last Will and Testament, on the other hand, is a matter of public record. Anyone can access information about the decedent’s assets, creditors, debts, and more.
Another benefit of Revocable Living Trusts is they not only allow the grantor to control trust assets during life but also after he or she passes away. The grantor can stipulate when, how, and under what circumstances the successor trustee is authorized to distribute trust assets to beneficiaries. This is particularly important if the beneficiaries are not yet mature enough to manage an inheritance on their own, or in situations involving blended families. For example, the grantor could stipulate that children from a first marriage receive assets from the trust, not just the children from a more recent marriage.
Revocable Living Trusts can also be used to protect the grantor and the grantor’s family from a stressful and expensive guardianship proceeding if the grantor becomes incapacitated.
As we mentioned earlier, there are many different types of trusts. If one of your primary goals is to protect assets from long-term care costs, creditors, lawsuits, and other threats, an Irrevocable Trust or an Asset Protection Trust may be a much better option then a Revocable Living Trust. If you have a loved one with special needs, a Special Needs Trust can allow you to create a fund for goods and services not provided by Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income while protecting eligibility for these vital programs. A Charitable Trust allows the grantor to set aside money for both a charity and beneficiaries, realize certain tax advantages, and generate an income stream.
These are but a few examples of various trusts and what they can accomplish. If you’re still not sure whether you need a trust, we welcome the opportunity to explain your options in detail and, if appropriate in your particular circumstances, design and implement the trust that’s right for you and your family.
Alzheon has reported encouraging results from its Phase 2 trial of ALZ-801, an oral treatment for early Alzheimers disease. The study showed cognitive benefits, a 28% reduction in hippocampal atrophy, and a strong safety profile, particularly for individuals with two copies of the APOE4 gene. With the Phase 3 trial now fully enrolled, topline results are expected in the near future. If successful, ALZ-801 could become the first oral anti-amyloid therapy for high-risk patients. Aqualane is proud to be part of this groundbreaking research and extend our deepest gratitude to all participants whose contributions are shaping the future of Alzheimers treatment.
At The Dubin Center, we often see the strength that blooms when families come together to care for a loved one. One such inspiring duo is Sally and her daughter, Jenna multigenerational caregiving team who have supported each other and grown together through the challenges of dementia caregiving.Sally has been a caregiver for at least four years, navigating the evolving needs of her husband with quiet strength and a fierce commitment to showing up each day. Two years ago, her daughter Jenn moved to Florida to be closerand to help. Since then, the two have become a team, blending perspectives, experiences, and love as they walk the caregiving journey together.When asked what they would say to someone who is unsure about joining a support group or getting involved with The Dubin Center, both women spoke with heartfelt conviction."Definitely come, Sally said. Anyone dealing with this sort of stuff needs support. It saved me.Jenn echoed her mothers words, adding, You are not alone. The support groups can help lift you out of the misery. You can give advice and get advice. Its a safe spaceand comforting knowing others understand.Caregiving across generations isnt always easy, but it opens the door for powerful lessons.When asked what younger and older generations can learn from each other, Sally emphasized patiencenoting that age often brings the ability to let go of the small things and focus on what really matters. Jenn reflected on the importance of respect, independence, and dignity, which shes seen modeled by her mom.So, what advice do they have for other families navigating caregiving across generations?Find support, and dont do it alone, Sally advised. Let your family know whats going on and ask for help when you need it.Jenn added, Being open, honest, patient, and kind are the most important. Dont judge, and find a middle ground to work together.Thank you, Sally and Jenn, for your inspiring words! Whether you have family to lean on or not, their words are a reminder that caregiving doesnt have to be a solitary journey. If you or someone you know is caregiving across generations or by themself, reach out. Whether it's joining a support group or simply asking questions, The Dubin Center is here for you!
As we mark Womens History Month 2025, TravelPulse is once again taking a moment to acknowledge the substantial contributions and innovations of women in the travel industry.Its hardly an overstatement to say that women play a critical role in travel and tourism, both locally and globally.The latest available data from the World Travel & Tourism Council shows that women make up nearly 40 percent of the industry. That translates to about 48 million women working in what is now the worlds ninth largest industry.Among these women are scores of trailblazers, visionaries and fearless go-getters who have set their sights on making a difference for others or for the world (or both) and are doing so in their own unique way. They are entrepreneurs, they are corporate titans, they are passionate environmentalists and they are leaders of some of the travel industrys largest brands, businesses and trade groups.This is TravelPulses fifth annual list of influential women in travel, and each year, it is a privilege reviewing the bold things that women in travel are accomplishing. The 2025 class of influential leaders makes clear that women continue to be a force to be reckoned with, even during this fraught time in our history.Women continue to bring unique approaches to addressing and resolving many of the daunting challenges facing the industry and the world at large, including finding ways to make travel more sustainable, inclusive, accessible, thoughtful, and beneficial for stakeholders at all levels.At TravelPulses request, each of the 20 women being honored this year (who were all nominated by industry peers) shared a few career accomplishments theyre most proud of, as well as thoughts on what motivates them. Their answers are a compelling and inspirational read.Heres a closer look at each of the 2025 winners and the forces that drive them.Kerri Johnson, Founder, GOMO TravelAs the founder of GOMO Travel, Kerri Johnson is transforming the way people with mobility challenges, medical conditions, or other travel limitations experience the world. A medical travel assistance agency, GOMOs medical travel companions ensure that travelers get where they need to go with safety.The assistance of GOMO companions is available whether someone has mobility issues, suffers from anxiety, or requires medical assistance.Johnsons efforts through GOMO prioritize inclusivity, ensuring every traveler no matter their circumstances receives personalized support, from booking accessible accommodations to navigating unexpected disruptions.Q: What motivates you to do what you do each day?I have a nursing background and have always been sensitive to peoples feelings and needs, says Johnson. As I have grown and matured, I have become a staunch advocate for those less fortunate. I start my day with my alarm of Andy Williams song The Impossible Dream.This is a daily reminder to accomplish my goal of alleviating fear, isolationism, andexclusion experienced by many would-be travelers, says Johnson. At GOMO Travel, we strive to make their dreams possible.Q: What are your hopes and goals related to your specific area of work and the impact youd like to have on the travel industry?We feel everyone should be free to travel on their own terms, whatever that individuallymeans for them, says Johnson. Our hope is to normalize assisted travel across the globe so they will know that resources like ours exist. Uber did not happen overnight, and we utilize every day to build our network to achieve our goal of one day becoming the Uber of assisted travel.
At Safe Harbor Law Firm (formally known as Buff Law Firm PLLC), we focus on estate planning, elder law, and closely related practice areas. Our true focus, however, is helping families plan for and take control of their future. This can involve:Ensuring your assets will go to the people you want, when you want, in the manner you want after you pass awayPreparing for the possibility that you or your spouse will need expensive long-term careand helping you find ways to pay for itEnsuring that people you trust have the authority to make financial and medical decisions on your behalf in the event of incapacityProtecting your assets and those of your heirs against threats such as creditors, lawsuits, divorce, the high cost of long-term care, and moreGuiding your loved ones through the probate and/or trust administration processSafe Harbor Law Firm has helped families from all walks of life find solutions to challenges like these and many more. We welcome the opportunity to do the same for you. Ultimately, our goal is to help you enjoy the peace of mind that comes from having a plan in place for the future. We invite you to contact us for a personal meeting to discuss your particular needs and goals.
Pam Buff Baker, Esq., owner and founder of Safe Harbor Law Firm works closely with clients to meet their legal needs. In particular, Pam works in all areas of Estate Planning, Elder Law, Probate and Trust Administration. Pam graduated magna cum laude from Tulane University, having majored in chemical engineering. Since graduating from Tulane, Pam has worked in sales, marketing, and technical support for Eka Chemicals (part of Akzo Nobel), a company division that supplies water purification and treatment systems. Later, Pam moved to Naples, Florida. Since then, Pam graduated summa cum laude from Ave Maria School of Law, where she was Associate Editor of the Law Review and a scholarship winner. During her time at Ave Maria School of Law, Pam worked in the legal department of Arthrex and interned for several local law firms. Pam is a champion golfer, having been a varsity player at Tulane, inducted into the Hall of Fame. She was an All-American golfer, three-time conference champion, conference player of the year, and student athlete of the year. When she has free time, Pam likes to play golf and go to the beach and pool with her family. Originally from Chicago, Pam has lived year-round in Naples, Florida since 2005.
Pam Buff Baker, Esq., owner and founder of Safe Harbor Law Firm works closely with clients to meet their legal needs. In particular, Pam works in all areas of Estate Planning, Elder Law, Probate and Trust Administration. Pam graduated magna cum laude from Tulane University, having majored in chemical engineering. Since graduating from Tulane, Pam has worked in sales, marketing, and technical support for Eka Chemicals (part of Akzo Nobel), a company division that supplies water purification and treatment systems. Later, Pam moved to Naples, Florida. Since then, Pam graduated summa cum laude from Ave Maria School of Law, where she was Associate Editor of the Law Review and a scholarship winner. During her time at Ave Maria School of Law, Pam worked in the legal department of Arthrex and interned for several local law firms. Pam is a champion golfer, having been a varsity player at Tulane, inducted into the Hall of Fame. She was an All-American golfer, three-time conference champion, conference player of the year, and student athlete of the year. When she has free time, Pam likes to play golf and go to the beach and pool with her family. Originally from Chicago, Pam has lived year-round in Naples, Florida since 2005.