Electronic Data and On-Line Information Is of Increasing Importance During Estate Planning

It has been estimated that over 90% of all business information today is created electronically. Use of social networking websites, such as Facebook, on-line photography accounts like Flicker, e-mail passwords and word processing files, is increasingly more common.

Various media commentators have addressed the need for individuals to consider their electronic data and on-line postings in conjunction with their estate planning. For example, the New York Times Magazine published a substantial article relating to this topic in its January 9, 2011 edition. Yet, because the rise of digital information is a relatively new phenomenon, many people have not yet fully considered or developed their plans for handling their electronic data and on-line profiles after death, or taken steps to minimize potential disputes about such items that could arise after death.

If you would like more information on this topic, please contact Carl Holborn at O’Neil, Cannon, Hollman, DeJong & Laing S.C. at 414-291-4704 or carl.holborn@www.wilaw.com.