Being named as the executor of an estate or the trustee for a trust is quite the responsibility. It will be your job to interpret and follow the last wishes of a loved one. This could include the division of assets, the allocation of physical items and even clearing...
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Month: March 2017
People are increasingly using estate plans to leave a legacy
It used to be that estate planning largely involved deciding how much money each of your children would get when you died, and who would inherit the good silverware and vacation home in La Jolla. For many Californians, it still is. However, increasingly, it's about...
Protecting your child’s inheritance from a spouse in a divorce
You want to leave your adult children an inheritance or perhaps give them a large chunk of money while you're still alive. However, you don't want to risk having half or more of that money go to their spouses should they end up divorcing. It happens all too often....
Understanding conservatorship in California
It happens in many families where the roles reverse and adult children become responsible for the welfare of their parents. If a doctor has diagnosed your parent with dementia or other mentally impairing disease, it may be time to start taking steps to ensure that you...
Why should you have a living trust?
It's often a wise idea for Californians to set up a living trust when they do their estate planning. This type of trust (also called an "inter vivos" trust) can make matters considerably easier on heirs after you pass away, and prevent them from having to go through...
5 frequently asked questions about probate
Losing a loved one is a difficult time. You may have to deal with your loved one's estate after the death if he or she had any assets. Many estates have to go through probate. Understanding some basic points about probate can help if you are facing this situation...
Should you have a ‘life estate?’
Most people think of estate planning as designating how assets will be handled after they die or if they are no longer able to speak for themselves. However, certain aspects of estate planning, like living trusts, are important for protecting your assets while you're...
What’s the future of the estate tax in California?
Everyone wants their heirs and beneficiaries to get as much money as possible when they pass away. They've worked hard for that money and assets that they've accumulated, and they want to see it continue to be used for good and for the benefit of their family....