If you have a will, it means that you must have two witnesses present when you establish it. This is a requirement, but this requirement serves a much larger purpose in probate. Here is the critical information you must know about the role witnesses play. Why witnesses are key Witnesses generally have two important roles: […]

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An estate plan helps ensure you can provide for the loved ones you leave behind. However, what happens to your furry friends? You cannot leave money or property to your pet like you would a person, even if they feel like just as much of a family member. But you can set aside funds for […]

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Living in California, and particularly in Southern California, is a unique experience, with the weather, beaches, traffic and show business influence. What you might not realize is that a fairly unique California law can impact your estate plan, probate and trust administration. California is one of just nine states with community property laws. The issue […]

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Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia are a serious health crisis in the United States. As seniors live longer and our country’s average age continues to rise, more and more Americans will be diagnosed with dementia in their later years. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, one in three seniors have some form of dementia […]

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Having an estate plan is a crucial way to preserve your legacy. However, to ensure it continues to provide the protection you want and need, you should consider reviewing and revising your plan after certain life events. Relationship changes When people leave or come into your life, it can be wise to update your plan. […]

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Many people think probate is a nightmare. It can certainly be a stressful experience. While families process their grief and try to deal with their shock and emotions, family members and often friends want to know who is going to be the Executor (if there is a Will) or Administrator (if there is no Will) […]

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Creating an estate plan is a valuable way to prevent unnecessary legal conflicts and delays. However, even with a plan serving as a guide, distributing your property after you pass away can trigger fights and resentments among your loved ones. Taking certain precautions can help minimize these potential issues and make asset distribution easier for […]

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People often want to leave a lasting, positive legacy when they are gone. This legacy can stretch beyond loved ones to charitable organizations and – increasingly – the environment. A small but growing preference for people regarding their final arrangements is to have a green burial. What is a green burial? The term “green burial” […]

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Wills are some of the most common estate planning documents. However, if your family cannot find the will after your loved one passes away, it can pose a real challenge. As we discussed in Part One of this series, Californians cannot file a will with a court before death. This applies to either a handwritten will […]

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When you sit down to hammer out your estate plan, you have a lot of important decisions to make. In addition to where you want your assets to go, you also have to make healthcare decisions for yourself and try to foresee all possible eventualities. In the midst of all of that, arguably one of […]

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