When Love, Legacy, and the Law Collide: A Real-Life Case That Proves Why Estate Planning Can’t Wait

Here’s a story you wouldn’t believe if it weren’t true: a TV executive dies, leaving behind a multimillion-dollar estate—and a legal battle between his estranged wife and long-term partner. Properties across Europe. Kids from different relationships. A decade-old will. Sound familiar?

It’s not fiction. It’s a cautionary tale.

At Cain, Cain & Janik, we see the same dynamics at play in real families right here in Oklahoma. It doesn’t take a $29 million fortune to trigger conflict—it just takes a plan that’s outdated, unclear, or nonexistent.

The Story Everyone’s Talking About

Justin Bodle, the British producer who helped bring The Muppet Show to TV, passed away in 2019. His will—last updated in 2013—named his estranged wife as sole heir. Since then, he’d started a new relationship and fathered two more children.

Now, his partner is in court claiming the will no longer reflects his true wishes. Meanwhile, his wife (and executor) says the estate has been drained by debts, legal fees, and taxes. What’s left is uncertainty, hurt, and years of litigation.

Sound familiar? It happens more than you’d think.

What Went Wrong?

• The will was outdated and didn’t reflect new relationships or children

• No provisions were made for a partner or blended family

• High-value assets were tied up in real estate—not easily liquidated

• The lack of a clear, updated plan turned a grieving period into a court battle

This isn’t just about money. It’s about protecting the people you love from the chaos of probate and the emotional toll of “figuring it all out” without guidance.

What It Means for Your Family

You don’t need a castle in England to learn from this. You just need a clear, thoughtful, up-to-date estate plan.

Whether you’ve remarried, have a blended family, a child with special needs, or just want to make sure your wishes are carried out—your plan needs to reflect your current reality. And it needs to work when the time comes.

At Cain, Cain & Janik, we walk alongside our clients and their families to create a plan that:

• Names the right helpers and avoids putting loved ones in impossible positions

• Considers liquidity so taxes, debts, or expenses don’t force the sale of family property

• Protects minor children, children from prior marriages, and beneficiaries with special circumstances

• Keeps family dynamics in mind—especially when equal isn’t always fair

• Prevents court battles before they ever start

Don’t Let the Courtroom Tell Your Family Story

Here’s what we know: Most estate plans don’t work the way people think they will. Why? Because life changes—your assets, your relationships, and the law all evolve.

That’s why we offer the Estate Planners for Life™ program. It’s not just a one-and-done transaction—it’s an ongoing relationship that ensures your plan continues to reflect your wishes, even as life moves forward.

If your estate plan is outdated—or you haven’t created one yet—there’s no better time than now.

👉 Request a Consultation or Register for a Workshop today, and let’s make sure your legacy brings your family peace… not problems.

Could You Lose the Family Home to Taxes? The Step-Up in Basis Debate Has Families on Alert

You’ve worked hard to build something meaningful. Maybe it’s the family home, a rental property, or a carefully managed investment account meant to provide stability for your children after you're gone.

Now imagine your loved ones having to sell those assets—just to pay taxes.

That’s the fear driving concern over proposed changes to a key estate planning tool called the step-up in basis. If it’s eliminated, your family could face a major tax bill on inherited property, even if they never see a dime in their pocket.

At Cain, Cain & Janik, we help families prepare for these changes—not panic about them.

What Is Step-Up in Basis?

Here’s the short version: When someone passes away, their heirs inherit most property at its current market value—not the original purchase price. That means when they sell, they avoid huge capital gains taxes.

Let’s say your parents bought a home in 1980 for $100,000. Today, it’s worth $1 million. Under current rules, you inherit it at the $1 million value—no capital gains tax due if you sell right away.

But if the step-up in basis goes away, you’d inherit the original cost basis. That means a $900,000 gain—and a potentially massive tax bill.

Who’s At Risk?

This isn’t just about wealthy families or mansions on the beach. The proposed change would hit the middle class hardest—the families who have worked for decades to build equity in:

• Modest homes that have appreciated over time

• Rental properties or farmland

• Small businesses

• Stock portfolios passed down through generations

Many of these families don’t have the liquidity to pay a surprise six-figure tax bill. That’s why planning ahead matters more now than ever.

What Can You Do?

The truth is, no one knows exactly what Congress will do. But waiting to “see what happens” could limit your options.

That’s where we come in.

At Cain, Cain & Janik, we guide our clients through smart strategies that preserve wealth and reduce risk, including:

• Creating and funding the right kind of trust to keep control and minimize tax exposure

• Strategic lifetime gifting to reduce your taxable estate

• Investing with taxes in mind, including Roth IRAs and insurance-based solutions

• Charitable giving to reduce gains and support causes you care about

• Using life insurance to provide tax-free liquidity for your heirs

Don’t Let Tax Policy Wipe Out Your Legacy

Estate planning isn’t about reacting to the headlines. It’s about being ready—with a clear plan that reflects your values, protects your family, and adapts as the law changes.

That’s why we created our Estate Planners for Life™ program. With this proactive approach, we work alongside you to keep your plan updated and effective—no matter what life (or lawmakers) throw your way.

Your family deserves more than a fire sale on your legacy. Let’s build a plan that protects what matters most.

👉 Request a Consultation or Register for a Workshop to take the first step toward tax-smart planning that works when it matters most.

The Great Wealth Transfer Is Coming—Will Your Family Be Ready or Left With a Mess?

Over the next 20 years, an estimated $84 trillion will be passed down from Baby Boomers to the next generation. It’s being called The Great Wealth Transfer—but if you don’t have an estate plan in place, this opportunity to build generational wealth could become a financial and emotional disaster for your loved ones.

At Cain, Cain & Janik, we help people like you make sure your estate doesn’t become part of the mess.

Big Dreams, No Direction

A recent survey found that while most Americans know estate planning is important, less than one-third have even a basic will. That’s a problem. Because when you don’t have clear instructions for what happens to your money and property, someone else makes the decisions for you: the government, the IRS, or a judge who never met you.

Even families with the best intentions can end up tangled in probate court—spending months (or years) sorting out assets, paying thousands in legal fees, and navigating conflicts that strain relationships at the worst possible time.

What Happens Without a Plan?

Let’s be honest: If your plan is to “let the kids figure it out,” you’re setting them up for stress, confusion, and maybe even resentment. Without proper documents in place, your family may be forced to:

• Hire an attorney to navigate the court system

• Wait months for access to accounts and property

• Pay unnecessary taxes and fees

• Settle disputes between siblings or stepfamily members

• Watch your legacy slowly unravel

That’s not the plan most families want—or deserve.

There’s a Better Way

We believe estate planning should be clear, effective, and built to last. Even a basic plan—including a will, powers of attorney, and health care directives—can provide peace of mind and help your loved ones avoid costly court involvement.

But if you want to avoid probate altogether, a properly designed and funded trust may be your best option. We see it far too often: families spend good money creating a trust, but never retitle their assets or fund the trust correctly—leaving their estate right back in probate court. That’s why our Estate Planners for Life™ program exists—to make sure your plan actually works when your family needs it most.

It’s Not About How Much You Have—It’s About What You Want to Protect

Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy. In fact, people with modest estates may be hit harder by court costs, taxes, or family disputes because they can’t afford to lose what little they have.

That said, if your family has built up significant assets—or if you want to protect what you’ve worked a lifetime to earn from your child’s ex-spouse or creditors—there’s no time to waste. Major changes to estate tax laws are on the horizon in 2025, and planning ahead could save your family a fortune.

Whether you’re leaving behind a home, a small business, or simply want to make sure your loved ones are protected and provided for, the most important question is:

Do you have a plan in place?

If the answer is no—or even “I’m not sure”—it’s time to take the next step.

👉 Request a Consultation or Register for a Workshop to get started. We’ll help you simplify the process, protect your legacy, and give your family the peace of mind they deserve.

Reflecting on Family Legacy: What Will You Leave Behind?

When Jack created his first estate plan at 35, his primary concern was naming a guardian for his two young kids. Now, 25 years later, his children are grown, his assets have changed, and his priorities have shifted. But his estate plan? It’s still gathering dust in a drawer.

Over the years, Jack built a thriving business, developed a passion for philanthropy, and welcomed four grandchildren. His vision for the future is no longer about basic protections—it’s about creating a legacy. But without an updated plan, his wishes may never be realized.

Your estate plan should evolve with your life. If it’s been years—or even decades—since you last reviewed it, now is the time to ask yourself:

• Does my plan reflect my current values and goals?

• Are my assets structured to support my family and the causes I care about?

• Have I accounted for changes in tax laws, family dynamics, or my own priorities?

Planning for the future is about more than just dividing assets. It’s about shaping the memories, values, and opportunities you leave behind. Jack eventually revisited his plan, working with our team to establish a charitable trust, create education funds for his grandchildren, and update his business succession plan.

This new year, take the time to reflect on what truly matters to you. Let’s create a plan that ensures your legacy lives on. Request a Consultation or Register for a Workshop to begin.

Financial Wellness in the New Year: Why a Will Alone Isn’t Enough

Financial wellness is about more than building wealth—it’s about protecting what you’ve built. Too often, families assume that a simple will is enough to safeguard their future, only to discover its limitations when life throws them a curveball.

Take the Petersons, for example. When their father passed away, his will outlined how his assets should be divided. But the will alone didn’t account for probate, which delayed the process and created unexpected costs. Worse, his retirement accounts had no beneficiary listed, leaving the funds tied up in court. For a family already grieving, these complications added unnecessary stress.

An estate plan goes beyond a will to provide a complete strategy for protecting your financial wellness. This includes:

• Trusts: A trust may help you avoid probate, protect assets from creditors, and provide ongoing support for your loved ones.

• Powers of Attorney: These documents ensure that someone you trust can make financial and healthcare decisions if you’re unable to.

• Tax Strategies: Proper planning can minimize estate taxes, leaving more for your heirs.

Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy or the elderly—it’s for anyone who wants to ensure their financial goals are aligned with their long-term security.

This year, take control of your financial future. Request a Consultation or Register for a Workshop to learn more.

Starting the Year Right: Why Updating Your Estate Plan Matters

When Rick and Susan drafted their estate plan 20 years ago, they felt an enormous sense of relief. They created wills, set up a trust for their kids, and designated guardianship in case anything happened to them. At the time, it felt like they had checked an important box. But over the years, life changed—Rick started a business, one of their children married and had kids of their own, and new laws around estate taxes were enacted. Their plan, however, stayed the same.

When Rick passed away last spring, Susan learned the hard way that an outdated plan can cause almost as much confusion as no plan at all. The business wasn’t included in the trust, leaving it tied up in probate. The guardian they had named for their now-adult children was unnecessary. And while their wills were still valid, they didn’t reflect the family’s current dynamics or needs. Susan spent months navigating legal challenges that could have been avoided with a simple update.

This year, resolve to keep your estate plan as current as your life. Key resolutions to consider include:

• Reviewing Beneficiaries: Outdated beneficiaries on retirement accounts or insurance policies can lead to assets being distributed to the wrong people.

• Updating Wills and Trusts: Reflect changes in family dynamics, financial situations, and legal requirements.

• Organizing Important Documents: Ensure your family knows where to find powers of attorney, healthcare directives, and insurance policies.

Don’t let an old plan create new problems. Start 2025 with an estate plan that works as intended. Request a Consultation or Register for a Workshop to get started.

Reflecting on the Past and Planning for the Future: Estate Planning Resolutions for the New Year

As we prepare for a new year, it’s natural to reflect on where we’ve been and where we’re going. At Cain, Cain & Janik, we believe estate planning resolutions are about more than finances—they’re about honoring the past while looking to the future.

When Mary came to us, she had recently lost her mother and felt compelled to secure her own family’s future. Mary’s story is a reminder of how estate planning is both a tribute to loved ones and a promise to protect those we care about. This year, we encourage you to create estate planning resolutions that bring peace of mind and purpose to your life.

1. Reflect on the Year’s Milestones
As Mary discovered, reflecting on major life events—new family members, career changes, personal growth—can guide us in creating or updating our estate plans. Each new experience provides clarity about what matters most.

2. Set Goals for the Future
Mary wanted her estate plan to provide both financial security and a way to give back to her community. Think about what’s important to you: Do you want to support a cause, help a family member, or preserve a family tradition? Your estate plan should reflect these aspirations.

3. Make Reviewing Your Estate Plan a Resolution
Estate planning is a journey, not a one-time task. Just as Mary scheduled regular check-ins to keep her plan up to date, make it a resolution to review your plan annually, adapting it to life’s changes.

4. Embrace the Gift of Peace
Mary’s story reminds us that estate planning isn’t just about documents—it’s about giving ourselves and our loved ones peace of mind. Setting resolutions to protect our future is one of the most meaningful steps we can take.

Our special offer: Schedule a consultation and become a client before year’s end and your trust will be maintained at no additional charge through our Estate Planners for Life™ Maintenance Program through January 1, 2026.

There’s no better way to close out the year than by knowing your future is protected. Take control and plan ahead today by contacting our office for a free consultation.

Year-End Estate Planning Checklist: Wrap Up the Year with Confidence

The end of the year is a time to tie up loose ends and make sure we’re prepared for what’s next. At Cain, Cain & Janik, we encourage clients to finish the year with a confident step forward, using our year-end estate planning checklist to create a foundation of security for the future.

When our client Jim first came to us for help, he wanted a simple will. But after his wife’s unexpected diagnosis, he realized a full estate plan could help ensure his family’s well-being. Now, Jim’s estate plan provides him with a sense of calm as he heads into the new year, knowing his family’s future is on solid ground.

Here’s how to make sure your estate plan is ready for whatever lies ahead:

1. Confirm Your Key Documents Are Current
As Jim learned, estate plans must evolve to keep up with life’s changes. Review your will, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives to ensure they reflect your current wishes and family needs. Major changes in family or finances are always worth a double-check.

2. Check Beneficiary Designations
From retirement accounts to life insurance, reviewing your beneficiary designations prevents unintended outcomes. Jim updated his policies to ensure his children were taken care of, providing a lasting gift that goes beyond simple possessions.

3. Consider Year-End Tax Moves
Take advantage of any year-end tax benefits, like charitable donations or annual gifting. Not only does this bring peace of mind, but it can also help you maximize financial benefits before the year’s end.

4. Enroll in Our Maintenance Membership

Our Maintenance Membership keeps your estate plan up to date, so you don’t have to worry about missing important changes. Jim joined our membership, which ensures his plan is reviewed regularly—a gift that keeps on giving.

Our special offer: Schedule a consultation and become a client before year’s end and your trust will be maintained at no additional charge through our Estate Planners for Life™ Maintenance Program through January 1, 2026.

There’s no better way to close out the year than by knowing your future is protected. Take control and plan ahead today by contacting our office for a free consultation.

Giving the Gift of Peace: Estate Planning for the Holidays

Amid the holiday cheer, we search for gifts that speak to the heart. For many, estate planning might not come to mind as a holiday gift, but what if it could offer the greatest peace of mind? At Cain, Cain & Janik, we believe estate planning is a gift that goes beyond wrapping paper and ribbons—it’s a gift of security, love, and comfort for everyone involved.

Take Matt and Sara, who came to us last December after Sara’s father experienced an unexpected medical crisis. They saw firsthand the stress of managing a loved one’s estate and wanted to make sure their own children never had to experience the same. By creating their plan, Matt and Sara gave themselves peace, knowing they’d protected what mattered most.

1. A Gift That Lasts

Matt and Sara’s story isn’t unique. Estate planning creates a legacy that lasts, protecting assets, preserving values, and providing peace. Imagine giving your family the comfort of knowing that everything will be taken care of, even if the unexpected happens.

2. Legacy and Values Preservation

Think of your estate plan as a reflection of what you cherish. Whether it’s setting up a trust, writing a will, or establishing family funds, estate planning lets you pass on more than assets—it passes on love, tradition, and support for future generations.

3. A Thoughtful Gift for Yourself

Creating a plan is a gift to yourself, too. Like Sara said after completing their estate plan, “It’s like taking a deep breath and knowing we’re prepared.” Take a moment to consider your own peace of mind—knowing that everything’s in place lets you focus on making memories this season.

Our special offer: Schedule a consultation and become a client before year’s end and your trust will be maintained at no additional charge through our Estate Planners for Life™ Maintenance Program through January 1, 2026.

Ready to turn these myths into meaningful decisions? Take control and plan ahead today by contacting our office for a free consultation.

Family Gatherings and Estate Planning: Starting Conversations During Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time for family, togetherness, and reflection on the past year. The days leading up to Thanksgiving and the days after Thanksgiving can be an opportunity to initiate important estate planning conversations. At Cain, Cain & Janik, we understand that starting these conversations with your family can seem awkward; however, these conversations can be an essential step in ensuring family harmony and financial security for the future.

One way to start the conversation about family values and legacy is in the kitchen as you prepare family recipes. By framing estate planning as a way to preserve these values for future generations, it becomes a positive and forward-thinking discussion rather than a difficult or uncomfortable one.

You can also highlight the importance of open communication. Estate planning involves shared goals, and having everyone on the same page is crucial. Thanksgiving offers a rare chance for family members to gather in one place and have meaningful discussions about their roles in the estate plan, whether it’s serving as a trustee, power of attorney or understanding their inheritance.

It’s also a good time to update family members on any recent changes in your estate plan, such as new wills, trusts, or powers of attorney. Keeping your loved ones informed about your wishes can prevent misunderstandings or conflicts down the line.

This Thanksgiving, take advantage of the time spent with family to have these essential conversations. Cain, Cain & Janik is here to guide you through the estate planning process. Request a consultation at this link or register for a workshop at this link.