Bypass trusts are an estate planning strategy that could benefit wealthy couples or people who have children from a previous marriage. This type of trust shelters your assets from federal estate tax up to the exemption amount, and it allows you to include other...
San Diego Probate & Estate Administration Law Blog
Common estate planning errors and how to avoid them
All California adults should consider creating an estate plan. However, you should know about the most common estate planning mistakes and how to avoid them. Not having an estate plan The biggest mistake you can make is not having an estate plan at all. If you die...
Should you include an irrevocable trust in your estate plan?
California allows you to create irrevocable trusts in your estate plan. An irrevocable trust is mostly set in stone, so you should be fairly certain before setting it up because you won't be able to revoke or modify it. The benefits of an irrevocable trust are...
Your estate plan considerations after being incapacitated
Creating an incapacity plan, but it's not something to avoid. If something happens and you don't have one, it makes it harder on your family and friends. California defines incapacity as an inability to perform acts or make decisions. An incapacity plan allows capable...
Three reasons to talk about estate planning with your aging parents
California is a place full of many happy families enjoying life. With that said, an important part of life is talking about potentially uncomfortable topics with your parents. As your parents are getting older, it's imperative to know they have estate plans in place....
What is trust administration?
Trusts provide methods for managing significant wealth and assets. When preparing one, you need to make sure that your California trustee will distribute its assets according to your wishes. Why should you set up a trust? Trusts protect assets and wealth for the...
Grounds for contesting a will in California
Coping with a loved one's loss in California can be very difficult. But, you can have a hard time moving on if you believe that their true wishes weren't carried out the way they would've wanted. And so, if you think that something is wrong with their will or perhaps...
What legal rights does a disinherited child have?
Dealing with the loss of a loved one in California is never an easy time. Sometimes, this situation can become even more overwhelming for a disinherited child. Understandably, receiving the label of a disinherited child can make you feel helpless. However, it's...
Some drawbacks to resolving trust disputes through arbitration
Courts throughout California help people resolve all sorts of disputes. One of the most common disputes in courtrooms involves trusts. If you're going through a trust dispute, there are multiple potential ways to resolve this matter. Sometimes, two parties choose...
How California taxes trust fund earnings
Trust funds can be a great way to save for your children or grandchildren's education or other long-term goals. However, it is important to be aware of the tax implications of receiving trust fund money in California. Here's an overview of what to expect. Revocable...