Handwritten Wills in California

Handwritten wills, also known as “holographic wills,” are accepted in California. There are certain requirements that must be observed, however, for a handwritten will to be valid in this state. Also, while handwritten wills may be valid in California, you should be aware of the potential pitfalls of having such a will...

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California Will Contest Actions

Most of the time, while not very pleasant, probate starts off without a hitch. The decedent’s will is verified by the court and then the personal representative of the estate dives into their many responsibilities. Every so often, however, a person will attempt to contest a will. Now, there are those incidences...

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How to Plan for Estate Taxes

Taxes are just a part of life. They are also a part of death. Yes, estate taxes can greatly impact your estate as the taxation rate is significant for those estates that fall above the federal estate tax exemption amount. Right now, this exemption amount is quite high. It sits at $12.92...

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California Wrongful Death Claims

A wrongful death claim arises when a person dies due to the negligent or wrongful actions of someone else. This is true in California as it is in most states. The at-fault party is held civilly liable and, in a successful wrongful death claim, will be ordered to financially compensate survivors...

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Getting Ready to Estate Plan

Think about all that can be accomplished in establishing an estate plan. First, you can put advanced health care directives in place that protect your wishes despite what life may throw your way. Second, you can preserve your wealth and avoid unnecessary taxation. Third, you can help ensure that your assets...

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Avoiding Social Media After an Accident

Despite the warm and fuzzy commercials you may see on TV, insurance companies are rarely on your side. If you are in an accident and make a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company, you may get a front row seat to how uncooperative insurance companies can be when they are...

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