Topic: Probate vs. Non-Probate – Why it Matters!

A clear understanding of the distinction between probate and non-probate assets is fundamental to effective estate planning and the smooth transfer of wealth upon death. Who knows better than two seasoned and professional paralegals who have specialized in Estate Planning and Probate and Tax law for their entire careers spanning decades, Tina M. Johnson, RP®, MnCP, and Cynthia Costello. Paralegals who help legal teams guide clients through the probate process in Minnesota involves a clear understanding of probate and non-probate assets.

Balancing probate and non-probate assets allows individuals to tailor their estate plans to their unique goals – providing both the control offered by a will and the efficiency of direct transfers. It matters because understanding the differences is essential for minimizing costs, expediting inheritance, and ensuring that an estate is distributed according to the Decedent’s intentions.

Speakers: Cindy Costello and Tina M. Johnson

Cindy Costello – My Approach with Winthrop & Weinstine

I love helping families with the administration of their loved ones estate or trust, including preparation of documents, tax returns and asset distributions. I have approximately 42 years of experience as a probate paralegal and earned a B.S. degree in Paralegal Studies from Winona State University.

I have taught many continuing legal education courses for MN CLE and am a former chair of the Probate and Tax Sectional of the Minnesota Paralegal Association.

In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my family and volunteering for the MN Historical Society.

Tina M. Johnson is a paralegal in Maslon's Estate Planning Group in Minneapolis MN, with more than two decades of experience managing probate and trust administrations, maintaining trust account ledgers and annual trust accountings, and preparing fiduciary income tax, gift tax, and estate tax returns. She also supports attorneys with clients' long term care planning needs and annual accountings for guardianships, conservatorships, and special/supplemental needs trusts.

A leader in her field, Tina regularly writes and presents on estate administration topics. Most recently, she authored a chapter in the newly revised Minnesota Estate Administration Deskbook from Minnesota CLE.

Tina earned her paralegal degree from Inver Hills Community College and a bachelor's degree from Minnesota State University – Mankato. She is certified as a PACE® (Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam) Registered Paralegal by the National Federation of Paralegal Associations, Inc., has earned the Minnesota Certified Paralegal (MnCP) credential, and serves as a notary public.

Remote attendance only.

• Member Cost: Free
• Non-Member Cost: $15

CLE credit has been applied for this session.

Please RSVP by July 8, 2025.

Sponsored by: Probate & Tax Sectional

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Andrea MacLean at Andrea.MacLean@bravlaw.com.