There are many estate planning terms that you hear thrown around, and it can be confusing to figure out what they mean at times. Before you purchase a piece of property to live in, or even after you've been in your own house for a while, you might consider having a...
San Diego Probate & Estate Administration Law Blog
Financial planning by age
California residents should consider various financial planning stages depending on their age. In their 20s and 30s, individuals prioritize paying off college debts and establishing a stable household. The accumulation of wealth typically occurs during a person's 40s...
Don’t make these mistakes when writing your will
In California, creating a will can detail your wishes and provide instructions on how you would like your assets distributed after you pass away. The information in this document can secure your loved ones’ future, but it can also cause legal disputes, confusion, and...
Hidden costs of settling a trust
One of the most popular misconceptions about trusts is that they’re inexpensive to manage, especially once the settlor dies. If you stand to benefit from a trust in San Diego, you should educate yourself about the “hidden” costs of settling the trust after the settlor...
Estate planning steps for new parents in California
The birth or adoption of a child is a joyous occasion. It is also a time to create, review, or update your estate plan so that your child is provided for after your death. Name a guardian in a will Even if money is tight right now, you need to name a guardian for your...
Estate planning after the loss of a spouse
Estate planning in California after the death of a spouse or divorce can be a difficult and emotional process. Understand the unique circumstances that arise in these situations and take the necessary steps to ensure that your assets are protected and distributed...
California estate planning: What is a trust?
Many people start their estate planning by drawing up a will. Some people take the next step to establish a trust to hold their assets. Trusts accomplish various objectives, and they differ from your will in a significant way. Assets in a trust bypass probate, whereas...
The legal process for minor beneficiaries
A minor in California has to wait until reaching 18 years old to inherit and manage assets. The court requires a child to reach the age of maturity first. A young beneficiary, along with the parent or guardian, has certain legal procedures to follow when receiving an...
Revocable living trusts
If you live in California and are considering creating a revocable living trust, it's essential to understand the benefits and potential drawbacks of this trust type. A living trust is a legal document that allows you to manage your assets and determines asset...
Does a retirement account have to go through probate?
Probate is a process all California estates go through even if the decedent lacked a will. However, some assets are transferred outside of probate. Retirement accounts are among them. Understanding probate The probate process allows a person’s will to be validated so...