Summer is here! A California summer is all about sunshine, relaxation, and maybe even checking off some those to-do list items you’ve been putting off. While you are sorting out travel plans and backyard BBQs, it may be the perfect time to tackle something equally important to you and your family: your estate plan. Creating a solid estate plan isn’t…
Many people choose an adult child or other relative to serve as the successor Trustee of their trusts. However, there are often concerns about a relative’s ability to administer a trust, such as sibling rivalries, personal obligations, or irresponsibility. In situations where a client does not have a clear, solid choice for a successor trustee, they may consider a professional…
As you begin to declutter your garage, empty out your closets of old clothes from a decade ago, and freshen up your home this Spring, it may be the perfect time to do a little “life cleaning” to ensure your life planning documents are in order, up to date, and have reflected any life events in the past few years.…
As young adults embark on the journey toward independence, many significant milestones exist to celebrate. From securing your first job to getting married or purchasing a home, each milestone presents new opportunities and responsibilities. While estate planning might seem reserved for older individuals, it is a crucial step to take as soon as you reach certain key milestones. Below are…
As the cooler weather dawns upon us, we cannot help but feel the nostalgia of the Holiday season looming in the distance. The Holidays inevitably bring together loved ones from all over to share in the celebration of family, gratitude, and the togetherness of people from near and far. Because having all your loved ones under the same roof is…
How to Protect Separate Property in Estate Planning Estate planning in California can be complex, significantly when differentiating between separate and community property. This distinction is crucial for ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes. In this blog post, we’ll focus on individual property, what it entails, how it is handled in California estate planning, and the steps…
Why Do I Have to Do a Probate When I Have a Trust? As an estate planning attorney, one of my least favorite conversations with a new client starts with me saying “I’m so sorry, but unfortunately, even though you have a trust, we are going to have to do a probate.” Clients are surprised to learn that this can…
The Importance of a Revocable Living Trust for the Sandwich Generation Financial planning can feel like a never-ending balancing act for members of the Sandwich Generation—those simultaneously caring for aging parents and supporting their children. This dual role can be incredibly demanding, both emotionally and financially. Financial resources can be stretched thin between paying for their children’s education, managing household…
Death is a topic many of us prefer to avoid, but as responsible adults, planning for the future includes considering what will happen to our assets when we’re no longer around. US Savings Bonds are a common investment choice for many Americans due to their low risk and reliability. However, what happens to these bonds after the bondholder passes away…