Category Archives: Probate

Probate-Proof Your Estate: Part 2

One step at a time probate proof estate plans

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 […]

Is Your Estate Plan Probate-Proof?

Avoid Probate Estate Plan

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? […]

Beneficiary Designations Part 2

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. 

Informal Probate

two women, one casual and one dressed up

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 […]

Does a Signed Trust Eliminate the Probate Process?

Asset Protection Probate Process

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 […]

Add Estate Planning to Your Vacation Checklist

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 […]

Family Estate-Planning Peace

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!

Estate Planning for Rental Property Owners

Estate Planning Steps

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 […]

Living Probate

Living Probate Glendora Upland

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 […]

Probate-Proof Trusts

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 […]