Although most people escape serious danger even with Coronavirus, use the pandemic as a wake-up call create or update your estate plan.
Category Archives: Probate
06
Mar
Mar
Some financial articles insist that a will is not the best way to leave assets to heirs. But why is that? Won’t scribbling something on a napkin work? Wills often lead to long and expensive court proceedings. Countless other more-efficient ways could be used, all of which more effectively pass property to family. But follow this […]
California Law, Elder Law, Estate Attorney, Estate Planning, Estates, Inheritance, Probate
Probate Pros & Cons: Part 3
28
Feb
Feb
Part 3 of a 3-Part Series Last week, in part two of our three-part post about probate-proof estates, we covered one option for avoiding probate with a strategy we called the “Piecemeal Approach.” Click here to read that post. And to catch up by reading part one, which introduced the concept of how to avoid […]
21
Feb
Feb
Part 2 of a 3-Part Series Last week, we began a three-part series about probate-proof estates. In part one, we covered reasons you should try to avoid probate. This week, we continue our series by focusing on a strategy we called the “Piecemeal Approach.” Finally, next week, we will conclude the series by delving further […]
California Law, Estate Attorney, Estate Planning, Estates, Probate, Wills
Is Your Estate Plan Probate-Proof?
14
Feb
Feb
The Smartest Way to Make Sure Your Estate Plan is Probate-Proof First in a 3-Part Series Consider this important question: When did you and your estate planning attorney perform a full review of the following? Your long-term plans for your financial affairs Family Legacy? For that matter, have you ever sought out such a review? […]
20
Sep
Sep
Last week, we began a two-part series about designating beneficiaries for your life insurance policy. Click here to read that post. Here is part 2. Protection against your creditors.
California Law, Estate Attorney, Estate Planning, Guardianship, Probate, Uncategorized
Informal Probate
16
Aug
Aug
The loss of a loved one presents unexpected challenges. You might feel overwhelmed if you lose a beloved relative or friend. And the process of handling their affairs only adds to the stress. Many families eagerly try to tie up loose ends and distribute assets. But in many cases, they end up facing either formal […]
Assets, California Law, Estate Planning, Probate, Trusts, Wills
Does a Signed Trust Eliminate the Probate Process?
11
Jul
Jul
Planning ahead benefits everyone involved. This applies to vacations and job interviews as much as to end-of-life concerns. Outlining your priorities and anticipating potential challenges makes sense in everything, including your estate. Clearly establishing protection over wealth and assets protects your family if you pass away or become incapacitated. However, simply meeting with an attorney […]
Assets, Estate Attorney, Estate Planning, Guardianship, Inheritance, Probate, Trusts, Uncategorized, Wills
Add Estate Planning to Your Vacation Checklist
28
Jun
Jun
Did you plan your vacation itinerary? Booked plane tickets? Reserved a room? Tossed sunblock and a beach novel into your suitcase? After settling your travel plans, before heading out the door, consider whether your estate plan is up to date. Don’t leave before ensuring the financial health and the future of your loved ones remains […]
California Law, Estate Attorney, Estate Planning, Inheritance, Probate, Trusts, Uncategorized, Wills
Family Estate-Planning Peace
03
Jun
Jun
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!