Trusts can be powerful estate planning tools, but once a trust becomes irrevocable—often when the grantor passes away—administering it can be challenging. As the trustee, you are responsible for ensuring the trust’s terms are met, handling taxes and record-keeping, and distributing [...]
Leaving real property—whether it’s a long-held family home or a lucrative rental—in your children’s hands sounds simple in theory. You might assume they’ll just inherit it and carry on. In reality, California’s tax laws (including Proposition 19), local reassessment rules, and [...]
Making crucial healthcare decisions can be a challenge under the best circumstances, and it’s even more daunting during a medical crisis. In California, two vital legal tools help ensure your health care preferences are followed if you become unable to speak [...]
For individuals with disabilities, government assistance programs like Medi-Cal, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), and Childhood Disability Benefits (CDB) serve as essential lifelines. These programs provide crucial financial support and access to healthcare services. However, without proper [...]
When people think about estate planning, many immediately focus on wills. But what many don’t realize is that trusts offer far more flexibility, control, and tax advantages. Trusts aren’t just for the wealthy—there are several different types of trusts that can [...]
Planning for the future: this phrase has different connotations for everyone. For some, the future seems uncertain - and for others, the process can seem overwhelming. Although it’s true that you can’t control your future, you can plan ahead to provide [...]
Medi-Cal, which is California’s Medicaid program, has been in place for almost 60 years; during this time, it has gone through a number of changes. In 2024, some significant changes occurred that will make it easier for people with disabilities to [...]
Estate Planning for Children Not Yet Launched: A Parent’s Guide As parents, we cherish our children’s milestones, from their first steps to the moment they’re ready to step out into the world on their own. However, for some of us, this [...]
If you’re someone who updated their trust five or ten years ago, you might be wondering if it’s time for a refresh. Are there new legal changes that affect your trust? Or perhaps changes in your family circumstances that necessitate you [...]
Right of Occupancy vs Life Estate in California Estate Planning Living in the vibrant Bay Area is a dream for many of us. It’s stirring with energy, charm, great weather, and endless opportunities. However, amidst its loveliness, the escalating cost of [...]