California couples often make big plans for the future during the initial year of their marriage but do not think in terms of estate planning. Without realizing it, they may be costing themselves vital opportunities to secure a stable future for their incipient family...
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Year: 2014
Essential times to revisit a will
Residents in California may understand the importance of a will, but many may for get to keep the documents updated. There are specific events in life that should trigger a review of their last will and testament to ensure it still reflects their final wishes. If it...
Preventing possible mistakes in estate planning
Some Los Angeles residents may have experience in dealing with various complications related to estate planning. Although estate planning can be one of the most important subjects for families to discuss, it is often neglected. Moreover, even in cases where families...
Is a holographic will valid in California?
California law recognizes the validity of holographic wills for any residents of the state. A holographic will is a handwritten document in which the testator describes their preferred disposition of the estate after their passing. So long as the will follows the...
What is a living will and do I need one?
California residents are likely familiar with several high profile legal battles in recent years involving the termination of life-sustaining treatment for terminally ill individuals. This kind of conflict can place families under a great deal of stress, and it may...
Types of conservatorships in California
A conservator may be appointed by California courts if a judge determines that a person is unable to care for themselves or needs help managing their own finances. It is important to understand the differences between the various types of conservatorships so the...
Determining if a trust is a worthwhile estate planning tool
A trust may be a worthwhile estate planning tool for many people who live in California. As a general rule of thumb, anyone with a net worth of $100,000 or more may benefit the most from a trust. They may be even more effective for those who also own a business, want...
How estates are administered in California probate court
When a person dies in California, his or her estate may be subjected to administration by the probate court. Any assets that were given away prior to the decedent's passing will not be subjected to probate. Property and assets that were included in a living trust also...
Will contests in California
There are many reasons why a person might wish to challenge a will. In the majority of cases, the person contesting a will is likely to benefit financially if the will is invalidated. California law permits contestants to challenge wills on several grounds, including...
How can someone become a guardian in California?
When someone wants to become a guardian of a child in California, they typically do so by filing a petition with the court. Other relatives of the child must be given notice in addition to the parents if they are living. If either one of the parents object, the court...