Cryptocurrency presents unique challenges for estate planning, as crypto has little to no central oversight. If heirs cannot find a way to access their crypto, there is possibly no recovery. That risk alone makes proper planning essential. Granting legal authority for...
Estate Planning
Choosing the right trustee: What to consider
Choosing a trustee is one of the most important decisions you make when creating a trust. The role carries real responsibility, so you must think carefully about who is best suited for the job. Here are several factors to consider before naming a trustee. Ability to...
Trust accounting: A process that delivers transparency
Creating a trust for your family is an act of love. Part of your preparation should include proactive monitoring to verify that your loved ones remain protected. Requiring a trustee to provide an annual trust accounting will confirm your assets are secure (or reveal...
What is the difference between probate and estate planning?
Estate planning and probate address what happens to property after death. They operate at different times and carry different legal consequences. A basic understanding of both processes can help to reduce the expense and time related to transferring property after the...
How should you prepare for your first estate planning meeting?
You worked hard to build your wealth and secure your family’s future. Without a clear plan, your assets could face lengthy delays in probate court and unnecessary taxes. Many people feel overwhelmed by the paperwork required to start this process. Organizing your...
4 cases when you can modify an irrevocable trust in California
You created an irrevocable trust to protect your assets and provide for your loved ones. Now you wonder if you made the right choices. Life changes and so do your needs. Fortunately, you may have more flexibility in updating your irrevocable trust than you think. What...
The ABCs of estate planning: A simple guide for Californians
Estate planning can feel overwhelming with its myriad options and legal complexities. But the truth is that every adult should have an estate plan, and starting with the basics makes the process far less intimidating. A is for Assigning Authority Estate planning...
What to do when a loved one dies in California: a practical guide
Losing someone dear is among life’s most difficult moments. Amidst the sorrow, there emerges a sudden and often intricate list of administrative duties that must be managed. In California, these tasks follow specific legal timelines. Immediate practical steps Within...
4 ways when probate is required in a California asset transfer
Imagine you just lost a loved one. You expect their home or savings to pass to you seamlessly. But instead, you discover their assets are frozen until a court approves the transfer. This situation happens more often than you might think in California. Thus, knowing...
Five Tragic Mistakes to Avoid in Estate Planning
Here are five of the most common, yet tragic, mistakes people make with their estate planning. From failing to plan to failing to pay attention to the details, here are five tragic mistakes to avoid: 1. Failing to Plan The first tragic mistake people make in their...