Blended families are a growing reality in California. Many stepparents want to include their stepchildren in their inheritance plans. Still, state laws create a clear line between biological and stepchildren. This distinction often surprises families during probate...
Helping You Through Times of Change
Estate Planning
Pros and cons of creating a will online
Everyone's legacy is unique, and so are their estate planning needs. Online will platforms offer a seemingly simple solution for crafting a will. Still, it is essential to weigh this action's potential benefits and drawbacks carefully. Creating a will online can be...
What is a revocable living trust?
A revocable living trust serves as a vital tool in estate planning. It allows you to manage your assets during your lifetime and ensures a smooth transition after your death. This type of trust offers flexibility and control, making it a popular choice for individuals...
Holographic wills can lead to problems in probate court
The idea of handwriting your own will might seem appealingly traditional. Still, these "holographic wills" can create unexpected challenges in probate court. It is essential to examine the potential drawbacks of this approach when exploring your estate planning...
How does probate work with out-of-state assets?
When someone passes away, their estate often goes through a legal process called probate. This process oversees the distribution of the deceased's assets and the payment of their debts, ensuring that the court handles everything according to the law and the deceased's...
When should you relieve a trustee from estate administration duties?
In estate administration, you may encounter situations where removing a trustee may become necessary. This process can be complex and emotionally charged. Understanding the potential reasons and steps involved is crucial. Reasons you might remove a trustee Several...
How can probate impact small business owners?
Small business owners are no strangers to hard work and dedication. You’ve poured your heart and soul into building your business, and it’s likely your most valuable asset. What happens to your business if you were to pass away or become incapacitated? The answer may...
Challenges in intestate: community and separate property
When a person dies intestate, it means they passed away without a will or an estate plan. The court then divides their property based on California intestacy laws. However, the process can bring up various complicated issues, such as distinguishing separate property...
What are the benefits of estate planning?
Estate planning is a crucial legal element of financial management that many people overlook. While it might seem like a complex topic reserved for the wealthy, the truth is that everyone can benefit from having a detailed estate plan. Whether you're just starting...
What is the difference between probate and nonprobate assets?
When a loved one passes away, dealing with the assets they left behind can be a confusing task. One of the most crucial aspects of estate planning is understanding the difference between probate and nonprobate assets. If you were the assigned executor of their estate...