While discussing estate plans with parents may be uncomfortable, doing so could help avoid significant problems in a California probate court. Older parents might not have the most comprehensive estate plans, and aging adults facing health issues could pass away....
San Diego Probate & Estate Administration Law Blog
Is it worth opening an estate bank account in California?
Executors can open an estate bank account during the probate process in California. However, they need to first start probate and receive confirmation from the court that the will is valid. Executors can't do anything with the estate until a judge gives them documents...
Reasons why advance directives are essential
There is more to estate planning than writing your will. Another document that many residents of California include as part of their estate plan is the advance directive. Whether you are young or old, having an advance directive is highly recommended. You have control...
Using estate planning is essential to designate beneficiaries
If you decide to get remarried in California, you may obtain an extended family quickly. In this situation, examining your estate planning and determining if it's appropriate and follows your current wishes is essential. Sometimes, individuals get remarried and make...
Post-probate procedures in California
Estate administration can be a lengthy and sometimes frustrating process in California. Successfully closing it is often the most satisfying part of the process. You should anticipate the following actions. Closing probate When the court closes probate, the executor...
Downsides of the probate process in California
California residents starting their estate plan have probably come across the term, “probate,” in their research. Many guides will talk about the importance of reducing time in probate court, however, it’s essential to completely understand the probate process. What...
5 mistakes to avoid when it comes to estate planning
Planning for the future can be difficult, especially when it involves finances and property. Estate planning is important in ensuring that all of your California assets are cared for. But, if you don't put in the effort to do it correctly, you could end up making a...
What is involved in an estate inventory?
Trust assets, jointly owned real estate properties and financial accounts with named beneficiaries are usually not subject to probate. However, any California estate with additional assets worth more than $166,250 usually must complete a thorough inventory and...
A guide to special needs trust in California
A special needs trust is a legal entity in California that holds financial assets on behalf of a disabled person. Its main purpose is to put a barrier between the individual with special needs and the assets they inherit or receive so that they can remain eligible for...
Can you avoid probate in California?
There are several estate planning strategies that you could use to avoid or shorten probate in California. The benefits of a shorter probate are money savings, passing on assets faster and happier beneficiaries. Transfer-on-death assets You can set up various...