When experiencing a major health change, people are more likely to focus on their treatment, recovery and adjustment to their new normal. While it is natural to prioritize health, updating your will is equally important. In general, a will remains valid until you...
Bay Area Estate And Tax Planning Law Firm
Estate Planning
Estate Planning 101: Your first steps
Creating an estate plan is a vital step in securing your family's future and safeguarding your assets. Many people in California put off this important task, finding it too complex or uncomfortable to think about end-of-life matters. However, understanding your...
6 steps in creating your advanced health care directive
Making medical decisions for a loved one who can’t express their wishes any longer is incredibly difficult. It can cause conflicts among family members with differing opinions about your care and who should decide for you. Specifying your medical care preferences in...
What you need to know about disinheriting a family member
Family relationships can be complex, and sometimes, sadly, they become strained or broken. In these difficult situations, you might consider adjusting your estate plan. Disinheriting a family member is a serious decision that often stems from deep-seated issues or...
When should you update your estate plan?
Estate planning isn’t a one-and-done deal. Your plan is something that you should revisit periodically to ensure everything remains in line with your current wishes and circumstances. Reviewing your estate plan involves more than just being sure that you have your...
3 ways to prevent family members from fighting over an estate
An individual with property that they hope to leave to others when they die want that legacy to be a positive influence on others. Unfortunately, estates have a tendency to disrupt families and cause major conflicts. The fights that erupt over inheritances can worsen...
Control irrevocable trusts provide in California
An irrevocable trust offers a robust mechanism for safeguarding your assets while simultaneously mitigating federal estate taxes. In this structure, the trust's founder, known as the grantor, designates a beneficiary to receive assets from the trust. When establishing...
Own digital assets? Consider putting them in your will
Digital assets are becoming a significant part of life. They range from tangible assets like cryptocurrency to more personal ones like digital photos. In the context of estate planning in California, these assets can and should be considered in your estate plan. Doing...
Why millennials shouldn’t avoid estate planning
While many people in California understand that estate planning is essential for their lives, many millennials overlook it. Some studies have shown that a surprising number of millennials have failed to take steps to ensure that after they pass, their final wishes get...
Choosing an irrevocable trust’s trustee
If you're someone with substantial assets in California, at some point, you may want to consider creating an irrevocable trust. An irrevocable trust can shield your assets from certain taxes and ensure that your beneficiaries are well taken care of after your passing....