Estate taxes are separate from probate expenses and final income taxes. Probate costs may often be avoided through proper estate planning tools, such as a revocable living trust, while final income taxes apply to any income earned during the year of death. Estate taxes, however, are a separate matter that can significantly impact the value of an estate passed on to loved ones.

Federal estate taxes can be substantial. Currently, assets exceeding the federal estate tax exemption are taxed at a rate of 40%, and these taxes are generally due within nine months after death. Because estate taxes must typically be paid in cash, families may be forced to sell real estate, business interests, or other valuable assets to satisfy the tax obligation. With proactive planning, however, many families can reduce or even eliminate estate taxes altogether.

At the heart of the Launch Party celebration were the firm’s partners—Marta M. Dybowski, Vernon Vassallo, and Alfred A. Cave—whose combined experience and shared commitment to excellence form the foundation of Maven Law. Each brings a distinct perspective and depth of expertise, yet together they embody a unified mission: to provide thoughtful, strategic, and client-centered legal solutions.

Title: Can a Delaware Asset Protection Trust (DAPT) Keep Your House Safe from Delaware Medicaid?

Short answer: Possibly — but not automatically. A Delaware Asset Protection Trust (“DAPT”) can be a powerful tool for shielding assets (including real estate) from future creditor claims but using it to plan for Medicaid eligibility requires careful timing, proper drafting, and trusted local legal advice.

Choosing the right executor for your will is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in estate planning. The executor handles the practical, legal, and emotional tasks after you die: locating assets, paying debts and taxes, communicating with beneficiaries, managing the estate’s finances, and distributing property according to your wishes. Pick well and the process will be smoother for everyone; pick poorly and your heirs may face delays, added costs, or conflict. Here’s a clear guide to help you choose the best person or professional for the job.

As people get older, they often need to rely on others for various kinds of help and are more likely to suffer from Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia. Consequently, as people age, they are more vulnerable to being financially taken advantage of, sometimes even by people they trust. A recent study by AARP estimates that financial exploitation costs adults aged 60 and older $28.3 billion annually.[1] Fortunately, there are some proactive steps that can be taken to prevent financial abuse before it occurs. In addition, older people and the family members and friends acting on their behalf have protective and remedial actions available if they discover that financial abuse has occurred.

Effective December 4, 2025, Delaware joins a growing number of states in authorizing Transfer on Death (TOD) deedsfor real property under Title 25, Chapter 2 – the Uniform Real Property Transfer on Death Act. This new law provides Delaware property owners with a powerful estate-planning tool that allows real estate to pass directly to named beneficiaries at death—without probate.