Financial Power of Attorney Explained – EP. 208 – Life’s Third Act

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In this episode of Life’s Third Act, senior estate planning attorney John Sauter breaks down the financial power of attorney and why it matters while you are still alive. Learn what a financial POA is, how a durable POA works, and what can happen if you do not have one in place, including the court process for conservatorships or guardianships. John also covers how to choose the right agent, why backups matter, the difference between immediate and springing powers of attorney, and common real world mistakes to avoid, like adding someone as a joint owner on a bank account.

Call 866-323-7529 or visit https://cordellcordell.com/practice-areas/estate-planning/ to schedule an estate planning consultation. For a limited time, mention LIFE’S THIRD ACT for 15% off eligible estate planning services!

Estate Planning Questions, Answered | How Trusts Work – EP. 207 – LTA

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How do trusts actually work once they’re created? In this episode of Life’s Third Act, we break down how revocable trusts function in real life, what it means to fund a trust, how assets are managed while you’re alive, and what happens if something is left outside the trust. We also address common misconceptions about cost, complexity, and who trusts are really for, helping you understand whether a trust makes sense for your estate plan.

Call 866-323-7529 or visit https://cordellcordell.com/practice-areas/estate-planning/ to schedule an estate planning consultation. For a limited time, mention LIFE’S THIRD ACT for 15% off eligible estate planning services!

Diane Keaton’s Estate Plan: Trusts, Residuals, and Real Estate – EP. 206 – LTA

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In this episode of Life’s Third Act, we take a closer look at how Diane Keaton built her career, managed her wealth, and thoughtfully planned her estate. From understanding residual income and long-term royalties to strategic real estate investments and the use of trusts, her story offers practical lessons on how successful planning happens over time.

Rather than focusing on mistakes, this episode highlights a positive example of disciplined decision-making, showing how careful planning can protect assets, support family, and preserve a legacy. The discussion provides clear, real-world insights into finishing well and why estate planning is most effective when it starts long before the end.

Order Diane Keaton’s book “Then Again” referenced in the episode here: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/196460/then-again-by-diane-keaton/

Call 866-323-7529 or visit https://cordellcordell.com/practice-areas/estate-planning/ to schedule an estate planning consultation. For a limited time, mention LIFE’S THIRD ACT for 15% off eligible estate planning services!

Estate Planning Questions, Answered | Wills & Probate – EP. 205 – LTA

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This week on Life’s Third Act, Joe Cordell and Cordell & Cordell estate planning attorney John Sauter continue their conversation answering commonly searched estate planning questions, picking up where last week left off. In this second half of the discussion, they focus on wills, probate, and why a will alone only takes effect at death. Joe and John walk through what actually happens during probate, including court oversight, creditor claims, delays, and costs, and explain how titled property drives the process. They also compare the long-term cost of probate versus the upfront investment in a trust, clarify how trusts operate continuously through incapacity and death, and explain how pour-over wills work alongside a trust to catch anything left outside. The episode closes with a practical look at why comprehensive planning matters for protecting your needs during life and your family’s future after you’re gone.

Call 866-323-7529 or visit https://cordellcordell.com/practice-areas/estate-planning/ to schedule an estate planning consultation. For a limited time, mention LIFE’S THIRD ACT for 15% off eligible estate planning services!