FLIP-FLOP

By Tim Barkley. April 2019. “Hi, Susan!” The attorney appeared to be talking nonsensically to himself, but everyone who saw him pacing outside his office could make out the telltale flashing blue light at his ear that indicated otherwise.  “Late-breaking news! ...

CONSTERNATION

Consternation. March 2019. By Timothy S. Barkley, Sr. “Well, thank you for your time, your Honor.”  The hearing on emergency guardianship had concluded in manner not entirely satisfactory to Susan and her brothers. “All rise!” directed the bailiff, as the judge...

WHAT DO I NEED?

What Do I need? February 2019. By Timothy S. Barkley, Sr. The handshakes concluded, the Johnsons sit across from the lawyer. “We need to get wills. We’re both in our seventies, and we’ve never had a will. And we think we might need a trust.” Mrs. Johnson interjects,...

SURPRISE!

Surprise! January 2019. By Timothy S. Barkley, Sr. Susan’s voice was urgent: “I’m at my mom’s place at the assisted living.  The social worker just told me that Mom signed a new power of attorney and replaced me.  Our sister Mary, who hasn’t...

GIVE IT AWAY

Give It Away. December 2018. By Timothy S. Barkley, Sr. Mom and Susan flanked the lawyer, who addressed Mom: “If I recall correctly, Susan and I had discussed making sure you qualify for Medicaid by giving some of your investment real estate to the kids. Is that what...

CHANGE OF PACE

Change of Pace. November 2018. By Timothy S. Barkley, Sr. The threesome came through the door slowly, helping along Mom on her walker.  The attorney welcomed them back to the conference room, helped to seat Mom and stow her hardware.  The trio declined coffee or tea,...