When it comes to estate planning, many people assume that married couples must create joint or mirror-image plans. After all, marriage is a legal and financial union, and it seems logical that estate plans would be handled the same way. However, the truth is that...
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ESTATE PLANNING – Estate Administration & Probate
What happens to a decedent’s debts?
When someone passes away, it is not unusual for them to leave behind a few debts. Those debts don’t just go away because of that death. Instead, creditors will try to collect what they’re due. The way this is done depends on specific information regarding the...
Protecting your caregiver’s inheritance
Do you have a caregiver who has helped you remain in your own home as you’ve gotten older? They may provide a little – or a lot – of assistance with household chores and “activities of daily living” like dressing and bathing as well as companionship. You may want to...
5 signs an executor could be mismanaging an estate
An executor plays a critical role in estate planning by managing the distribution of a person's assets according to their will after they pass away. In California, the executor handles tasks like paying debts, filing taxes and distributing assets to beneficiaries....
Who can be an executor of your estate?
An executor ensures a deceased person's wishes are carried out and distributes their assets according to their will, playing a vital role in estate planning. This responsibility involves managing the estate, paying off debts and distributing assets to beneficiaries....
Can I disinherit someone in California?
Life's journey often takes unexpected turns, and relationships can change dramatically over time. The bond you once cherished might sour, leading to painful conflicts and a shift in your legacy plans. As you navigate these emotional waters, you might wonder if you can...
What are the benefits of avoiding probate?
Have you ever wondered what happens to your assets after you pass? Without a solid estate plan, you might leave your loved ones with a lengthy and costly process called probate. Below are why you might choose to avoid probate and how it could benefit you and your...
What are the grounds for challenging a will in California?
When you go through the grief of losing a loved one, the last thing you want to face is the legal complexities of their will. However, if you suspect the document does not reflect their true intentions, you may need to take action. But what exactly constitutes valid...
What happens to assets discovered after the probate process?
Probate is the legal process of distributing a person’s estate after death. A person’s estate will be distributed accordingly to their inheritors if they leave a will or trust. During probate, the designated representative must submit an inventory of the deceased’s...
Updating your estate plan: When, why and how
In simple terms, an estate plan serves as your final instructions for how certain people would handle your finances and assets when you’re incapacitated or dead. Having an estate plan also helps streamline the probate process so that your assets are properly...