The Happy Lawyer NC Blog

Want to narrow your search? Tap the buttons to read articles by category:

Get happy, helpful stories like these by email

Estate Planning Kristin Mackintosh Estate Planning Kristin Mackintosh

7 Guardian Mistakes Parents Make

As parents, we work tirelessly to protect our children—from choosing the safest car seats to finding the best schools and preparing healthy meals. But many loving, responsible parents unknowingly leave their children vulnerable when it comes to the most critical protection of all: what happens if you’re no longer there to care for them. Naming guardians isn’t just about filling in a blank on a will—it’s about ensuring that, no matter what life brings, your children are raised with love, stability, and the values that matter most to you. Sadly, small mistakes in guardianship planning can have devastating consequences. In this article, we’ll walk through seven of the most common mistakes parents make—and show you how to avoid them, giving your family true peace of mind.

Read More
Estate Planning, Elder Law Kristin Mackintosh Estate Planning, Elder Law Kristin Mackintosh

Protecting the Family Home: Strategies to Preserve Generational Wealth

If you're a North Carolina homeowner or an adult child of aging parents, protecting the family home should be a top priority. Without proper estate planning, your most valuable asset could be lost to probate, Medicaid recovery, or family disputes. In this blog, we’ll explore high-level strategies to preserve generational wealth, avoid costly legal battles, and ensure your home passes smoothly to the next generation. Whether you're in Garner, Raleigh, or anywhere across North Carolina, proactive planning can make all the difference.

Read More
Estate Planning Kristin Mackintosh Estate Planning Kristin Mackintosh

Estate Planning Made Simple

Let’s be real—life is busy. Between work, kids, aging parents, and trying to carve out five minutes for yourself, estate planning is probably at the bottom of your to-do list. But here’s the thing: waiting until you have “more time” could leave your family unprotected when they need it most.

The good news? You don’t need hours to secure your family’s future. A few small, smart steps today can make all the difference.

Read More
Estate Planning, Elder Law Kristin Mackintosh Estate Planning, Elder Law Kristin Mackintosh

How to Talk to Your Parents About Elder Law Without Conflict

Discussing elder law with your parents can feel daunting. You worry about stepping on toes, sparking conflict, or making an already sensitive topic even more difficult. But as uncomfortable as these conversations might be, they’re essential for protecting your family’s future and ensuring your parents’ wishes are honored. With the right approach, you can navigate these discussions respectfully and productively.

Here are six strategies to help you talk to your parents about elder law without conflict:

Read More