Husband and wife creating a trust

The Benefits of New Parents Establishing a Trust

Becoming a new parent is undoubtedly one of life’s most transformative experiences. It ushers in a profound sense of joy, love, and fulfillment. It also, however, brings forth an array of new responsibilities, many of which revolve around ensuring your child’s welfare and security. Among these responsibilities, financial planning often takes center...

Continue reading…
A woman typing on a computer

Payment for the Personal Representative of an Estate

The personal representative of an estate has a litany of responsibilities it must fulfill. They must locate, inventory, and manage the assets of the estate. They must notify beneficiaries and heirs that the decedent has died. They must notify creditors of the estate and verify which creditor claims are valid and, thus,...

Continue reading…
Older woman drafting her will with attorney

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...

Continue reading…
A real estate lawyer talks to an older couple

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,...

Continue reading…
Older women estate planning

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...

Continue reading…
Man working on his estate plan

Small Estate Administration in California

Did you know that the size of an estate can have a significant impact on administration options? Who survives a decedent can also have a significant bearing on administration options. These are good to know about as probate proceedings can be frustrating. They can also be very expensive as well as time-consuming....

Continue reading…
Client working with estate planning attorney

How to Set Up a Conservatorship

As you may be aware, the legal system is full of intricacies and jargon that make things nearly impossible for the general public to decipher. To add on to this, the terminology can widely vary between states. For instance, in California, a protective proceeding for an adult is referred to as a...

Continue reading…