Practical And Thoughtful Legal Guidance
Your executor's responsibilities will be complicated. That's why it's vital to make their job more manageable before they assume their duties. How can you do this? Here are three tips for helping your executor: Help them understand their role It’s possible that the...
California residents who are making their estate plans might want to consider using one or more charitable trusts as a component. This can be particularly useful for individuals whose estate is large enough that they are looking for ways to reduce estate tax, but...
Estate planning involves many critical steps to ensure that the probate court follows a planner's wishes. Of course, probate consists of executing a will, and other documents, such as power of attorney or a healthcare proxy, and these can be part of such planning. You...
Estate planning is an essential process that ensures your assets are protected in California, and it also ensures that they are distributed according to your wishes. Many people assume that estate plans are only necessary for married couples. That’s not the case....
Estate planning can involve many different matters of concern. While many assume that it consists solely of writing a last will and testament, there are other documents legal under California law. One such document is an advance directive. An advance directive does...
If you are happily married and have substantial wealth in California that could be subject to federal taxes, you may want to consider a QTIP trust for your partner. Here's what it does. Understanding a QTIP trust and how it works From the basics, trusts are legal...
A bank account for the estate of a California resident who passed away promotes transparency as the executor, also known as the personal representative, settles an estate's final affairs. The account keeps the income and expenses for the estate separate and produces a...
Assets such as a California home that are titled in your name at the time of your death are classified as part of your estate. Any items held in your estate will need to be probated. Probate is a process by which a judge confirms the validity of your will before...
Having a child can add a layer of complexity to your life whether it was planned or not. After you have processed the shock, joy or other emotions associated with becoming a parent, you are strongly encouraged to take a look at your estate plan. If you don't have one,...
Creating a California estate plan is a great way to prepare for your future. However, estate planning is an ongoing process. You might consider reviewing your plan at least once or twice a year. Certain life events will require you to update your estate plan....