A Last Will and Testament, usually referred to as simply a “will,” can accomplish many things in your estate plan. It is perhaps best known for being the mechanism outlining how you wish your property to be distributed after you pass away. A will, however, can do much more. You can name the executor of…
Continue reading…Coronavirus Should Have You Considering These Estate Planning Essentials
Why is it so important to have a power of attorney? The coronavirus pandemic is sweeping the nation and causing a wave of illness and death in its path. The news today is fraught with ever dire reports about the number of people critically ill or dying due to COVID-19, the disease caused by the…
Continue reading…Avoid These 3 Basic Estate Planning Mistakes to Protect Your Loved Ones
What will happen if I die without a will in place? The death of a loved one will cause tremendous sadness and emotional upheaval. The last thing any of us want is for our family to incur additional hardships after our death due to a lack of effective estate planning. After you die, your assets…
Continue reading…Here’s Why You Need an Estate Plan
There is a common misconception out there that only wealthy people need an estate plan. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Whether you make $10,000 a year or $1,000,000 a year, you absolutely must have an estate plan. In fact, if you have any assets at all, you need an estate plan to ensure…
Continue reading…Minimize Potential Family Conflict Surrounding Your Estate Plan
How can I avoid a challenge to my will after my death? Your estate plan represents your last wishes to your heirs and loved ones. The decisions you make concerning who will receive what assets will be done with much thought and care. At times, you may be forced to make the tough decision of…
Continue reading…Estate Planning is Not Just For the Wealthy
Why is it important for everyone to have a will? Estate planning is critically important for those in all financial situations. Estate plans range in complexity from simple wills to complex multi-generational trusts. Your estate plan accomplishes far more than just transferring your assets upon your death. With your estate plan, you will protect yourself,…
Continue reading…FAQ Concerning California’s New Revocable Transfer on Death Deed
In September of last year, California Governor Jerry Brown signed into law House Bill 139 — creating a new type of deed designed to help expedite the probate process. Specifically, the “revocable transfer on death deed” was created to simplify the probate process for surviving family members, effectively allowing valuable real estate to pass to…
Continue reading…New Transfer on Death Deed Available in California
What is a revocable transfer on death deed? Traditionally, if you wished to leave property to someone at the time of your death you had a few options. You could provide for the bequest in your will, put the property in trust for the intended beneficiary, or enter into joint ownership with the person you…
Continue reading…The Ins and Outs of Living Wills
What is a Living Will? A living will is an advanced health care directive. It is a legal document that describes a person’s desires relating to medical treatment if he or she should become unconscious or unable to communicate. Living wills are part of California’s Natural Death Act, which spells out the requirements for a…
Continue reading…