Managing an estate is not for the faint of heart. Unfortunately, some executors end up thrust into this position of responsibility without understanding exactly how tough it is. Thus, it is important both for you and for your executor that you both understand what it...
Estate Planning
Signs an estate plan needs updating
Most consider spending an afternoon reviewing estate planning documents an unappealing notion. The law is complex, and people are often reluctant to contemplate their mortality. That said, estate planning documents sometimes need updates and alterations. One way of...
Estate planning for out-of-state property
Estate planning should detail the transfer of ownership of all property, including homes in addition to the primary residence. When the location of vacation homes or second properties is outside the owner's state, the process can be more complicated. When creating an...
When should I start estate planning?
The financial security of your family, particularly your children, is probably of utmost importance to you. Starting an estate plan is a typical first step toward ensuring that your precious loved ones will always have the support they need. If you have heard about...
How you should manage your executor
In the event of your passing, you should put a trustworthy executor in charge of your estate. This person will take care of everything from taxes to personal property to debts. Most importantly, your executor will distribute your belongings in the way that you prefer....
Can my ex inherit from my estate after our divorce?
A divorce forces you to chart a new course. Along with the immediate ramifications of dividing finances, debt, property and time with children, you may want to consider what may happen with your estate. Now that you are no longer married, you should update your estate...
3 key components every estate plan should have
If you count yourself among the many adults in California who do not yet have an estate plan, know that you do not have to expend considerable time, energy and expense to create an effective one. Instead, many people are able to accomplish their most important estate...
How a supplemental needs trust improves a child’s quality of life
If you have a child who has a disability, you may have some deep concerns about his or her ability to work. Not being able to pursue gainful employment, of course, may lead to a lifetime of financial insecurity. Fortunately, from Medicaid to Supplemental Security...
What happens if you die without a will in California?
According to The Conversation, an astounding 68% of the U.S. population lack a will. Many people put it off, believing they have plenty of time to do so since they are young. However, according to a group convened by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and...
Should you leave your ex-spouse in your estate plan following divorce?
When you get a divorce, one of the first things you’ll do is update your estate plan to remove your spouse from it. Your now ex-spouse usually will not remain in your estate plan unless there is a specific reason that you would like to keep them on as a beneficiary in...