How to Keep Peace in the Family

In U.S. News and World Report, Philip Moeller notes an increase in family estate squabbles and will contests. He presents eight estate-planning tips. Can't argue with this one:

Pick the right executor and trustees. Anticipate family friction, and make sure you don't appoint to key positions relatives who can't get along. "If you are concerned about conflict among your heirs," [estate attorney Adam] Gaslowitz says, "it is usually best to appoint a professional fiduciary like a bank to manage your affairs after you are gone."