Category: Estate Planning

What will happen to my estate if I die without a will in California?

Less than half of all Americans, 44 percent, have a will in place that describes how their estate should be handled after their death, according to the latest Gallup poll.  Many people share the view...

Federal estate taxes are very high. How high you ask? A whopping 40 percent high. This means that if the value of your estate is above the federal exemption, the federal government will claim 40 percent of what is in excess. That’s 40 percent of your estate taken away from your spouse,...

Should I postpone making my estate plan until the federal estate tax is repealed?

President Trump has proposed completely eliminating the federal estate tax.  This controversial tax currently remains at 40 percent, but with a Republican House and Senate, it is possible that the tax will soon be reduced or erased.  However,...

Creating a will gives you the power to decide how your property and other assets will be distributed after your death. As the drafter, you are able to specifically dictate who gets what assets you have remaining. In some cases, this includes taking someone out of your will or otherwise disinheriting them.

How do I make changes to an existing will in California?

Life is always moving forward and perpetually changing.  As you age, it is likely that you will attain more assets and have more children.  Your children will grow up and have children of their own.  You may find yourself divorced or...

If you or someone you love is near the end of life, arranging legal paperwork might be one of the last things on your mind. Working with a legal professional to draft a last will and testament is a vital step to protect your loved ones and help them make a decision on...

A power of attorney is a document that enables you to appoint someone you trust to act on your behalf, if you are unable to do so yourself. The power of attorney can be a powerful tool to assist you in going through life’s uncertainties in the best possible way you can. Drafted...

What steps do I need to take to leave an inheritance to my grandchild?

Many grandparents wish to leave their grandchildren with financial or property gifts upon their death.  Leaving an inheritance to your grandchildren can be a wonderful way to continue your legacy, but it will require some...

Estate planning fraud is on the rise. More and more companies are popping up, offering to sell unsuspecting customers “one-size-fits-all” estate plans and other services via telemarketing, bulk mailers and seminars. Most commonly, we see these companies offering “standard” living trusts that...

Why do I need an estate plan?

If you are like most Americans, you may have put off creating an estate plan.  More than 50 percent of all Americans lack even a basic will.  Anyone who has recently had a baby, however, should reconsider the importance of making an estate plan.  An...