Engaged. Responsive. Trusted Counsel.
Since 1901, Beers Mallers has been one of Northeast Indiana’s leading law firms. Known for our commitment to excellence, our team of attorneys work collaboratively to find practical solutions for all our clients’ legal needs. We are recognized as leaders in the practice of elder law and Medicaid planning, estate planning and administration, litigation, and municipal law. We also concentrate on business and corporate law, real estate and land use law, and employment law. From your personal to business needs, Beers Mallers is well-prepared to assist you with all your legal matters. Perhaps that’s why Beers Mallers was ranked #1 in northeast Indiana for Best Attorney/General Practice Legal Firm.*
*1st Place, Best Attorney/General Practice – Fort Wayne NewspapersReaders’ Choice Awards 2020
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THE PROFESSIONALS AT BEERS MALLERS CAN HELP WITH ALL OF YOUR LEGAL NEEDS
BUSINESS
The business environment is ever-changing, and we understand that our clients need to be quick to anticipate and adapt to change. We have the ability to guide and grow with your company, whether it is the conception of a new business, a merger or acquisition, or the next stage in the life cycle of your business.
PERSONAL
Personal legal disputes are some of the most stressful situations that clients encounter. The attorneys at Beers Mallers Backs & Salin have years of experience navigating family law, estate planning, personal injury, tax planning, immigration topics, and countless other personal legal matters. Our group of compassionate attorneys understand your needs and want to help.
GOVERNMENT
At Beers Mallers Backs & Salin, we pride ourselves on our intimate knowledge of the political process and our ability to read the political winds and accurately forecast outcomes. We work hard to identify and access the real decision-makers, and, most importantly, to pursue our clients’ causes with the undisputable credibility that gets results.
LATEST NEWS AND HELPFUL INFORMATION
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Does My Will Control All My Assets When I Die? by William J. Stockdale
Contrary to popular belief, a Last Will and Testament does not necessarily have the final say about what happens to a person’s assets when they die. Setting aside the claims of creditors, the role of a Last Will and Testament is to control the distribution of Probate Assets. Probate Assets are properties owned in the decedent’s name, which do not have a joint owner or designated beneficiary. The Last Will and Testament only controls the Probate Assets.Any real estate, account, investment, or any other property held by a joint tenant with rights of survivorship will automatically pass by law to […]
What is the difference between your Power of Attorney and your Personal Representative? by Tony B. Manns
Your Power of Attorney (“POA”) or attorney-in-fact is the person who has the power to act in your place while you are still alive. Your POA is able to pay your bills and handle your financial duties for you. Your POA has no authority to do anything once you pass away. At that time, the powers provided to your POA cease.In your Last Will & Testament (“Will”), you will name a person to act as the Personal Representative of your estate. It might be your spouse, child, or a trusted friend. This is the person who will collect and inventory […]
Elder abuse: What can be done? by Troy C. Kiefer
Elder abuse is a significant concern in our society, but there are steps we can take to protect our elderly loved ones.Firstly, it’s essential to recognize the signs of abuse – physical, emotional, financial, or neglect. If an elderly relative shows unexplained injuries or sudden financial difficulties, it may be necessary to investigate further.Maintaining regular communication with our loved ones is also critical. When they feel valued and heard, they’re more likely to voice concerns about any mistreatment. Therefore, establishing a routine for check-ins, whether in-person or over the phone, is key.Educating our loved ones about the resources they can […]
What is an Estate’s Personal Representative and how is one appointed? by Ryan M. Gardner
A personal representative is the individual appointed by the Court to oversee the management of a decedent’s estate. Their duties often include simple tasks such as bill pay, but also sometimes include the difficult duty of marshaling, locating, and organizing, the decedent’s property. This individual typically works closely with an attorney who helps them throughout the probate process.A personal representative must be appointed by the Court and file with the Cour their oath to fulfill their duties pursuant to Indiana law and any directives set out by the decedent in the last will and testament. With that said most decedents […]
In estate planning, what is the reason for tension over control vs. tax planning and other long-term benefits? by Kurt R. Bachman
Estate planning is often a struggle between giving up control and receiving tax savings or other long-term benefits. For instance, to obtain the full benefit of the federal unified estate and gift tax credit (currently $12,920,000.00) or the annual gift tax exclusion (currently $17,000.00 per person per year), you must relinquish all incidents of ownership over the assets you wish to use to take advantage of such credits and exclusions. In other words, you must give up legal control over that particular asset (whether it is cash, stock, real estate, or anything else). Also, to take advantage of the Medicaid […]
How can I incorporate charitable giving into my estate plan? by Janell M. Sprinkle
There are many ways to include charitable giving in your estate plan. A common and simple method is to make a bequest in your will. Another simple approach is to name your charity as a beneficiary of your IRA. This comes with an added tax advantage since qualified charities are exempt from paying taxes on IRA distributions, which means more of your donation makes it directly to the charity. Other methods to consider, depending on the size of your gift and your desired level of involvement, can include creating a scholarship or setting up a charitable trust. In addition to […]