If a Californian dies without a will, their probate estate will get divided according to California’s laws of intestate succession. There are some exceptions to this rule. For example, property held in trust will pass to the person’s heirs according to the terms of...
Compassionate And Competent
ESTATE PLANNING – Estate Administration & Probate
Addressing digital assets in an estate plan
One of the purposes of creating a comprehensive legal and financial strategy for the future is to ensure you have the final say over what happens to your property after you pass away. Through an estate plan, you can also plan for potential medical care needs you may...
When is it time to update your estate plan?
There is no way to know with certainty what will happen in the future, but there are steps one can take that will allow him or her to have a measure of control over certain matters. Through estate planning, it is possible to have the final say over things, such as...
Should you include your pets in the terms of your estate plan?
For many families, animals are beloved and cared for as if they were a member of the family. In some cases, pets may outlive their owners, and it is important to address what could happen if the pet doesn’t have someone to care for it, pay for its needs and ensure...
Is it too early to start estate planning for your young family?
Estate planning isn't just for seniors. Young families can also benefit from having this type of plan in place. In case of a sudden accident or illness, parents can still take care of their young children through a guardian even after they pass away. Even if you don't...
Can you avoid probate with a will?
The short answer is no. Verifying the legitimacy of a will before your named executor can distribute the estate to the designated beneficiaries is one of the most vital aspects of the probate process. Therefore, even if you have a will, the executor will still need to...
What are holographic, oral and video wills?
When most people think of the California estate planning process, they imagine legal documents that have been typed with a space at the bottom for signatures. Regarding a last will and testament, however, this is not the only type of will there is. In fact, there are...
Executing a will as part of estate planning
Whether you consider your California estate simple and basic or complex and high-net-worth, you can protect your assets and provide for your loved ones’ futures by crafting a solid estate plan. While there are state laws that must be met for estate documents to be...
What should be in your health care power of attorney?
It can be difficult and emotional to make important decisions about your future. You may not want to think about what could happen if you face incapacitation for any reason, but it is critical to think about these things. By having a plan in place, you can feel...
Lawsuit filed during probate of Anne Heche’s estate
In August, a California woman was working from home when an automobile suddenly came crashing through her walls. She says she nearly died that day. Her home caught fire when the car ignited in flames. The woman has since filed a $2 million lawsuit against the estate...