H. L. Mencken once said, "For every complex problem there is an answer that is clear, simple and wrong." In our quest for a simple solution to avoid probate, you may hear someone make a suggestion that makes some sense on the surface. But when it comes to estate planning you have to ask yourself why informed people don't take this layperson's advice.
There are those who like to think that the powers that be make things more difficult than they need to be, and perhaps there are cases when this is actually true. However, don't buy into overly simplistic assumptions regarding the transfer of assets to your loved ones after you pass away.
One idea that circulates is the notion that you can simply add someone's name to your bank accounts and tell this individual how you want your resources divided among your heirs after you pass away.
We will just assume for a minute that there is absolutely no chance that this individual that you choose will decide to do anything with the resources of which you would not approve either while you are living or after you pass away. (But of course in reality anything is possible.)
What if this perfectly trustworthy individual was to get into financial trouble or become the target of a lawsuit? As a joint account holder the funds that are in the account are the property of this person and they are subject to attachment. If that person dies before carrying out your wishes, their estate plan (or the government's plan) will determine where your assets will go.
Elder financial abuse has become a big problem in the United States today. Senior citizens are scammed out of billions of dollars annually. What if your co-account holder was to become a victim of financial abuse? You could wake up one morning and find the cupboard bare and there would little you could do about it.
Don't take chances with your financial assets. Perhaps it is time to engage the services of a licensed estate planning attorney who will assist you as you arrange for future asset transfers in a safe and effective manner.

It can be quite an exciting and challenging adventure to go into business for yourself.  As we all know the majority of start-ups do not succeed in the long run so you have to defy the odds to gain traction and become successful.
Because of the demands involved in starting up a business how you will be exit the business may not be the first thing on your mind.  However, once you know that you are in fact going to be in it for the long haul you should ask yourself how you or your estate will proceed when it is time to retire or after you pass away.
The way you approach this is going to vary depending on the type of business you are in. Some businesses are owner driven, such as professional practices and they are not really viable after the exit of the owner.  Other businesses will continue to operate after the owner steps away. Some plan on handing the business off to the next generation. Others intend to sell the business to finance their retirement years.  Partners in small businesses have yet a different set of circumstances to address.
The best way to explore your options and ultimately devise an exit strategy is to sit down with an experienced Reno NV estate planning attorney.  Your lawyer will gain an understanding of your unique situation, listen as you explain your objectives, and give you the appropriate advice.