The timeframe after a family member dies, usually is confusing and traumatic with family members and friends having to act quickly in planning a funeral, paying bills, taking care of pets, etc. As the family members navigate through these tasks, they often realize they need access to important documents, like an estate plan that had […]

There are many myths about living trusts that often float around; however, don’t be fooled! Here are the three common myths that we, as estate planning attorneys often hear: Myth #1 “A Living Trust only benefits the beneficiaries named in the trust, and not the grantor” A lot of times a living trust is created,

The topic of estate planning can be overwhelming and daunting; however, below are five important topics to help you begin the discussion with your family. Execute a Living Trust: In order to pass your assets to your loved ones and avoid probate after your death, a living trust needs to be set-up and executed. A

Did you miss the February 16, 2021 deadline to transfer a property to your children before Proposition 19 went into effect? Don’t fret! There are various Prop 19 strategies. One of the strategies is with a Family Property LLC, which still may help your children avoid reassessment of property (under Prop 19) when you pass

Did you know that there is a way to protect your assets should you need skilled nursing/long-term care? There is no need to “spend down” your estate until you are within the $2,000 asset range. With the proper planning of an estate planning attorney, who specializes in Medi-Cal planning, you can protect your assets and

Proposition 19 amends the current legislation adopted in Propositions 13 and 58. It allows qualifying owners (over 55 years of age, physically disabled or natural disaster victims) to move into a house of lesser value up to three times in the State and to carry their lower property tax assessments. This is great news for

Many of us are looking forward to turning the page on 2020. Though it may be easy to focus on the low points of 2020, the low points hopefully come with a silver lining: a renewed focus on what is really important to us. If there ever was a time to focus on New Year’s

After a loved one passes away, one of the biggest obstacles families face is passing wealth onto the next generation. Unfortunately, family dynamics can spur conflict and infighting among children and other family members. No matter how well you work on your estate planning your family can still make things difficult. One of the hardest parts

With all the extracurricular activities that we are partaking in during this pandemic: bike riding, quilting, bread baking, and reading, there is one more that you should consider. Right now add setting up your living will and trust has been added to the list of items that have become more popular during the pandemic. During

Death or incapacity can creep up on anyone. If you’re not prepared, your family could bear a heavier burden when handling your estate or financial affairs. Here are five tips to help everyone lighten the load. Create an Estate Plan One of the most important things you can do to get your affairs in order