Most families get together for the holidays, share laughs, and tell stories. Everyone gets along and enjoys each other’s company. Then, the matriarch or patriarch dies. Suddenly, years of pent-up resentment and hurt feelings bubble to the surface. And the once-happy family dynamic crumbles over the decedent’s estate. There goes estate-planning peace!
Assets, Estate Attorney, Estate Planning, Inheritance, Trusts, Uncategorized
What to Bring to An Estate Planning Meeting
24
May
May
Putting together an estate plan? If so, consult with an attorney who is knowledgeable and experienced in this area of law. Your initial estate planning meeting will allow you the chance to discuss your family’s financial situation and cover concerns and goals. Preparing ahead of time for this meeting will smooth the way for you […]
Estate Attorney, Estate Planning, Estates, Probate, Trusts, Wills
Estate Planning for Rental Property Owners
17
May
May
Popular services like Airbnb offer attractive alternatives to hotel stays. Homeowners and vacationers, alike, enjoy the perks associated with “easy” rentals. Do you own a home or other income-generating rental property? Make sure you understand the following asset protection and estate planning considerations: Protecting Owners from Liability As with any rental relationship, property ownership comes […]
Estate Attorney, Estate Planning, Estates, Retirement, Taxes, Trusts, Wills
How to Coordinate Retirement & Estate Plans
06
May
May
We often think of retirement accounts as monolithic resources. It is easy to see why. We spend years socking away money for the future. Unfortunately, however, the rising cost of healthcare threatens to deplete even the largest retirement account. Because retirement funds make up the largest assets in a person’s estate, proper planning is crucial […]
Elder Care, Elder Law, Estate Attorney, Estate Planning, Estates, Guardianship, Inheritance, Trusts, Wills
What to do with the family heirlooms and keepsakes
26
Apr
Apr
When many think of estate planning, they think of assets that include money, real estate, and personal property. But, included in someone’s estate could be invaluable personal property, such as family heirlooms or keepsakes. Don’t overlook this type of property even if it does not have a high dollar value. It could still provide sentimental […]
California Law, Estate Attorney, Estate Planning, Guardianship, Inheritance, Trusts, Wills
Stress Test Your Estate Plan
19
Apr
Apr
So you have done the hard work of establishing an estate plan. Good for you! However, you still have serious work to do to ensure that the strategy you have selected will maximize your peace of mind and protect your legacy. Estate plans should be like living, breathing creations that reflect the changes in your life. […]
California Law, Estate Attorney, Estate Planning, Glendora, Guardianship, Probate, Trusts, Wills
Living Probate
05
Apr
Apr
If you become incapacitated, who is going to take care of you? As difficult as it may be, face facts. If you become incapacitated, you will not be able to make medical decisions for yourself. What’s more, you won’t be able to manage day-to-day-today affairs. This would be sad no matter what. But, if you […]
Alzheimer's, Dementia, Elder Care, Estate Attorney, Estate Planning, Guardianship, Life Changes, Trusts, Wills
Three Legal Things to Do After a Scary Health Diagnosis
29
Mar
Mar
A scary health diagnosis causes emotional and logistical challenges. For instance, how can you take care of your family if something happens which causes physical incapacitation? In addition to working closely with your medical providers, consider taking these three legal tips: Make sure your Estate Plan is up to date. Are you among the 42 […]
Estate planning often brings out emotional decision-making relative to asset division. Many people think that if they love their family, they can solve estate concerns by leaving everything to their loved ones in a will. Unfortunately, however, wills are (contrary to their name), not the most caring way to plan your estate. It’s important to […]
Estate Attorney, Estate Planning, Estates, Inheritance, Life Changes, Probate, Trusts, Wills
10 Estate Plan Mistakes
22
Feb
Feb
Have you created a trust or will? If not, now is the time to do so! And, if so, did you work with an established estate planning attorney to set it up or did you DIY? Either way, review the following caveats to see if any apply to your plan. Review the list to make […]