It is the unknown that often trips up people. But, sometimes, what we find out is that we are the ones standing in our own way of overcoming the unknown. This can be the case with estate planning and creating a will. Whether you have a modest or large estate, it is a...
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What to know about a conservatorship
If an individual were to become incapacitated, another person may be appointed to manage that person's affairs. This person is typically referred to a conservator, and a California judge will help to ensure that he or she is acting in an incapacitated adult's best...
Estate planning basics
Most people are aware that they need to create an estate plan, but they may not know what the steps are. California residents shouldn't be embarrassed if they aren't familiar with everything that an estate plan entails as most people are unclear on the topic. Contrary...
Estate planning and Special Needs Trusts
Estate planning is important for everyone in California, but it's particularly vital for the parents of children with special needs. Parents want to provide them with the best quality of life, but they don't want to disqualify them from need-based government programs....
Administrators in probate proceedings
Administrators are individuals who are appointed by the court during probate proceedings to carry out the duties that would normally fall to executors. Courts appoint administrators when the decedent did not leave a will or when the person named as executor in their...
What are the benefits of conservatorships?
As we discussed recently in this blog, a conservatorship is a legal way for one person to gain decision-making power over some or all aspects of a loved one's life. When someone seeks conservatorship over an adult, it is usually because the adult has a disability,...
A daughter has questions regarding her mother’s estate
A woman recently sent a message to a financial advice column detailing a situation involving a home owned by her mother. The woman is in line to inherit the home from her mother. The point of contention is a stipulation that the mother's boyfriend can also live in the...
How to create a stronger estate plan
Ideally, you will take time to create an estate plan that provides for your needs now and after you pass. If you fail to make a will or trust, California law may distribute assets to your spouse or child by default. In addition to a will or trust, it may be a good...
What happens to your will after you pass
If you lived in or owned property in California, your estate may be subject to its probate laws when you pass. Your estate representative is responsible for presenting your will to a judge so that a probate proceeding can begin. Generally speaking, the case is handled...
Why estate planning is important for all stages of life
While estate planning is typically seen as a task for older individuals, California residents at any stage of adulthood can benefit from getting their affairs in order. Without a will, the person's estate will be divided up by the court in the case of their death....
