We all want to leave an inheritance to the people we care about when we die. This explains why most people write wills. Done right, a will can ensure that your assets pass down to your dependents per your wishes. However, estate taxes (besides probate costs) can eat...
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Estate Planning
Are heirs and beneficiaries the same?
If you’re planning for the future, then you may be thinking about making an estate plan. An estate plan allows you to anticipate your passing and instruct what happens to your assets afterward. The main legal document in your estate plan is your will. A will includes...
Do children have to pay their parents’ debts?
Many types of debts still have to be paid even if someone passes away. Tax debt is one example, as the government still may want payments for property taxes or income taxes. Another example could be a car loan or a home loan. There are also minor costs like utilities...
How does undue influence work in estate planning?
Undue influence isn’t something that is limited to estate planning, even though that’s where it often shows up. It just happens when one person uses a position of power to influence the other person to make a decision that is not in their own best interests or that...
This is the time to update your estate plan
California intestacy law dictates how assets held in your estate are allocated if you die without a will or a trust. State law may also take effect if your will or trust is found to be invalid for any reason. Therefore, it's important to review and update your estate...
How does ancillary probate work?
Sometimes the probate process that occurs after a person’s death can become much more complicated. This is often the case in the state of California where certain residents may own property that exists in other states. Navigating such a probate case can be difficult...
Preparing for the death or incapacitation of an executor
The death of a loved one is an unfortunate but unavoidable time for families throughout California. One way people can provide for their loved ones after passing away is with a proper estate plan. And there's almost no more vital role in someone's estate plan than the...
Word worth in estate planning
Estate planning in California is essential to protecting your family’s financial future. However, believing what anyone says without question can lead to costly mistakes, especially in trust litigation. To clarify, it is essential to understand the concept of word...
Strategies for challenging a power of attorney
Financial planners encourage people in California to execute power of attorney (POA) documents in case of an unforeseen emergency. The POA allows the principal to name an agent to act on their behalf in financial and/or healthcare matters. The document generally takes...
California hospitals must contact your next of kin
California hospitals must consult with your next of kin if you become incapacitated or have an accident. The person the hospital contacts can make healthcare decisions since you cannot speak for yourself. However, hospitals must do this only if the state has a...
