For many of us, our companion animals are an integral part of the family. However, too many of them end up in animal shelters after their guardians become unable to care for them or pass away because those guardians didn't plan for their future. Sometimes, people...
We are your Southern California partner in estate administration and estate protection.
Year: 2017
Do you have what it takes to be an executor?
Someone close to you is working on his or her estate plan and has asked you to be the executor. You're honored and a little frightened. What does it involve? Do you want to take on the responsibility? Do you have the time, temperament and skills necessary? People...
What happens when someone you love dies without a will?
Many people put off creating a last will or estate plan as long as they can, often until they approach retirement or start worrying about who will care for their children. Unfortunately, many people every year pass away without having any instructions regarding how...
Here’s why you need an estate plan, even if you’re young and poor
If you're in your 20s, you're likely paying off student loan debt, perhaps trying to save up for a better car or even a home and navigating your first job out of college. Likely, the last thing you're thinking about is estate planning. However, you should be. Estate...
Don’t forget your legacy when you do your estate planning
When you and your attorney are crafting your estate plan, you're obviously focused on where you want your assets to go after you die -- to family members, non-profit organizations and other beneficiaries. You also need to make important decisions about how to help...
Have you signed a HIPAA release?
Imagine you suffer from a catastrophic health event. Maybe you have a stroke or you get into a car accident that leaves you unconscious and incapacitated. Your sister -- who is the closest person to you -- arrives at the hospital and asks the doctor about your...
What can I do to ensure that my living trust is honored?
One of the main reasons individuals elect to set up a living trust is to ensure that their assets can be passed on to their loved ones per their wishes without having to go through probate. Setting up one can also serve as an easier way for an individual to manage his...
Avoiding the legal perils of leaving money to caregivers
Many people who are old and/or sick rely on non-family caregivers in the later years of their lives. Not surprisingly, they often want to remember these people in their will. However, if other family members weren't aware of what a special bond their loved one had...
Marrriott heir claims he’s been cut off for divorcing
Nearly everyone here in Southern California has stayed at a Marriott hotel at some point. The Marriott company is the world's largest publicly-traded hotel chain. However, all is not well with the family behind it. John Marriott III is alleging that his father has...
Consider these things as you choose a guardian
As we grow older, there comes a time when it is wise to consider giving another person the authority to make important legal and financial decisions on our behalf. These individuals may have a variety of duties, depending on the needs of the person they serve, and may...