Melenni Balbach 12/16/25 Melenni Balbach 12/16/25

Year-End Estate Planning Checklist: 7 Things to Do Before 2026

2025 is almost over. Before 2026 starts, make sure your estate plan is in order. Here's a checklist of 7 things you need to do before the year ends to protect your family.

Melenni Balbach 12/9/25 Melenni Balbach 12/9/25

Getting Married in 2026? Why You Need a Prenup Before the Wedding

Getting married in 2025? Before you finalize those wedding plans, you need to have a prenup conversation. It's not romantic, it's smarter. Here's how to do it without the drama.

Melenni Balbach 12/2/25 Melenni Balbach 12/2/25

The Best Christmas Gift: Peace of Mind Through Estate Planning

Christmas is coming. You're thinking about what to buy everyone. And honestly? You're probably stressed about it.

What if I told you that the best gift you could give your family costs way less than you think and will actually matter more than anything you can wrap? (Just kidding, gifts are great and even as a lawyer, I’d be pissed if someone wrapped a legal document and put it under the tree).

Melenni Balbach 11/28/25 Melenni Balbach 11/28/25

End-of-Year Reality Check - Family Law Planning

Black Friday is here. Everyone's focused on shopping deals. But before you buy anything, think about protecting your family. Here's why end-of-year is the perfect time to get your legal documents in order.

Melenni Balbach 11/25/25 Melenni Balbach 11/25/25

Collaborative Divorce: Because Courtroom Drama is Overrated

You know what I hate about traditional divorce? The adversarial process. You're pitted against your spouse. Both sides are trying to "win." In the end, everybody loses—emotionally, financially, and sometimes with their kids. There's a better way. It's called collaborative divorce. And honestly? If you're getting divorced, this should be your first option.

Melenni Balbach 11/18/25 Melenni Balbach 11/18/25

The Pre-Nup Conversation: How to Talk About It Without Ruining Thanksgiving

So you want to talk to your fiancé about a prenup, and you're pretty sure it's going to go over like a lead balloon. Here's what I hear all the time: "If I bring up a prenup, they're going to think I don't trust them." Or: "It's going to feel unromantic." Or my personal favorite: "My mom said it's basically planning for a divorce." Okay, let me be direct: that's all fear talking. And I get it. But a prenup is actually one of the most loving things you can do.

Melenni Balbach 11/12/25 Melenni Balbach 11/12/25

Thanksgiving Planning: Why Now is the Time to Update Your Will (Before Family Drama Hits)

Look, Thanksgiving is coming. You're thinking about pie. You're thinking about whether Aunt Carol is going to start that argument again. What you're probably not thinking about is your will. But here's the thing, November is actually the perfect time to update it. And I'm not being dramatic when I say this could save your family from absolute chaos.

Melenni Balbach 10/31/25 Melenni Balbach 10/31/25

Don’t Let Your Divorce Become a Nightmare 🎃

Divorce can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Learn how clear agreements and legal guidance make the process smoother.

Melenni Balbach 10/27/25 Melenni Balbach 10/27/25

Your Legacy, Your Plan: Why Estate Planning Matters Now

Without an estate plan, state law decides what happens to your assets. Learn why planning ahead protects your family and your wishes.

Melenni Balbach 10/20/25 Melenni Balbach 10/20/25

Do You Really Need a Will? Estate Planning Explained

Wondering if you need a will? Learn why wills are the foundation of estate planning and how they protect your family’s future.

Melenni Balbach 10/13/25 Melenni Balbach 10/13/25

Your Legacy, Your Plan: Why Estate Planning Matters Now

Estate planning is about more than money, it’s about protecting your legacy. Learn why every family should plan now, not later.

Melenni Balbach 10/6/25 Melenni Balbach 10/6/25

Peace of Mind Starts Here: A Simple Guide to Estate Planning

Estate planning gives families security and clarity. Discover how wills, trusts, and powers of attorney safeguard your loved ones, protect your assets, and ensure your wishes are honored. Estate planning doesn’t have to be stressful. Peace of mind starts here.