What is the Probate Process in California?
What is the Probate Process in California? Probate is the legal process through which a deceased person’s estate is administered and distributed according to their will, or if they passed away without a will (intestate), according to California state law. The probate process is generally time-consuming and costly, and is often complex, which is why […]
How Creating a Trust Can Help Avoid Probate in California
How Creating a Trust Can Help Avoid Probate in California Probate is a court-supervised process that can be time-consuming, expensive, and stressful for heirs. In California, probate can take anywhere from nine months to several years, depending on the complexity of the estate. Fortunately, creating a trust is one of the most effective ways to avoid […]
How to Avoid Tax Reassessment on Your Home in California: Key Strategies for Homeowners
How to Avoid Tax Reassessment on Your Home in California: Key Strategies for Homeowners As a California homeowner, understanding how to protect your property from unnecessary tax reassessments is crucial to maintaining predictable and manageable property taxes. California’s property tax system is governed by Proposition 13, passed in 1978, which limits the amount your property […]
Managing the Finances of an Incapacitated Californian: A Practical Guide
Managing the Finances of an Incapacitated Californian: A Practical Guide When a Californian becomes mentally incapacitated and unable to manage their financial affairs, it often falls to friends or family members to step in. However, even with the best intentions, navigating the procedural and legal hurdles at banks and brokerage firms can feel overwhelming. This […]
How to Get a Conservatorship: The Legal Steps to Establish Conservatorship in California
How to Get a Conservatorship: The Legal Steps to Establish Conservatorship in California Creating a conservatorship in California involves a legal process that allows a responsible person or organization to care for an adult who cannot manage their personal care or finances. This might be due to physical or mental limitations, such as a disability, […]
Guardianship vs. Conservatorship in California: What’s the Difference?
Guardianship vs. Conservatorship in California: What’s the Difference? In California, both conservatorship and guardianship serve as legal tools to help protect individuals who cannot care for themselves or manage their own affairs. Although they share similar purposes, they are distinct in their application and scope. Understanding these differences is crucial for anyone considering pursuing one […]
What is a Trustee? Understanding the Role, Responsibilities and Legal Implications
What is a Trustee? Understanding the Role, Responsibilities and Legal Implications In the realm of estate planning and asset management, the role of a trustee is pivotal. Whether you are considering appointing a trustee or have been asked to serve as one, understanding what it means to be a trustee is crucial, not only for […]
Creating and Managing a Trust: Do I Need an Attorney?
Creating and Managing a Trust: Do I Need an Attorney? When it comes to trusts, the question of whether you need an attorney often arises. While some may consider handling trusts independently, there are compelling reasons why enlisting the expertise of a legal professional is crucial. Here are three key reasons why you need […]
The Importance of Estate Planning: Ensuring Family Harmony and Protecting Your Legacy
The Importance of Estate Planning: Ensuring Family Harmony and Protecting Your Legacy Estate Planning attorneys see firsthand the turmoil and discord that can arise within families when a loved one passes away without a clear and comprehensive estate plan. The emotional toll of losing a family member is compounded when disputes over the estate emerge, […]
10 Things to Know if You are a Beneficiary in a Probate Case
Are you a beneficiary in a probate case? Probate can be a long process that many think is avoided with a will. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. If you are a beneficiary in a probate case, there are several important things you should know and consider.
Every Parent’s Guide to Estate Planning: Peace of Mind Made Easy
Every Parent’s Guide to Estate Planning: Peace of Mind Made Easy Strapping your screaming kid into a car seat, cajoling your frightened toddler into holding still for vaccines, listening to your sweet baby wail as you leave her for the first time in the care of someone else … These are the not so fun parts […]
