When it comes to practicing law, mistakes can and do happen. Despite our best efforts, they can sneak into even the most thoroughly reviewed document or estate plan. Most clients can forgive the occasional error–attorneys are human after all. However, when it comes to big mistakes, especially those that cost clients money or don't meet their estate plan goals, can result in ruined client relationships and even negatively impact your practice's integrity.

Good news for the world of philanthropy: charitable giving is not dead. With the recent changes to the tax code, it’s an appropriate time for estate planning professionals to revisit charitable giving with a view toward identifying these new opportunities and assessing how a charitable giving plan works within the broader estate planning strategy. 

Despite the worry that the increase in the standard deduction under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act would negatively impact philanthropic activities, charitable giving has continued to increase since 2018. This suggests that charitable giving is still important to many of your clients. Historically, 30 percent of charitable giving activity takes place during the holidays, so December is the perfect time to help clients incorporate their philanthropic desires into their estate plan.