Numerous California residents create revocable living trusts every year, but not all of these individuals will take advantage of their numerous benefits. In fact, it's not uncommon for individuals to waste the amount of money they spend on trust creation by never...
Trusts
What should I consider when creating a pet trust?
California parents love their children more than anything -- well, almost more than anything. Many parents arguably love their pet dogs and cats just as much as their human children. The problem is, dogs and cats are considered property under the law and they can't,...
What parties are involved in a testamentary trust?
A testamentary trust is written within a will, or it's written within another document that has been incorporated into a will by reference. Such a trust goes into effect at the death of the will creator (a.k.a, the settlor). One of the primary reasons why estate...
Dispute over Napa estate erupts more than decade after death
A family argument over the fate of a $92 million estate wages on in Napa Superior Court. The dispute erupted between two daughters of a multi-millionaire landlord, businessman and vintner who amassed a considerable amount of wealth during his life. The daughters are...
What are the benefits of creating a living trust?
California estate planners have a lot of options for organizing their finances and distributing their wealth after they're gone. One of those options might include the creation of a living trust instead of a will.It's important to understand the potential benefits of...
Do you want to include your grandkids in your estate plan?
You've considered all of your children and planned for them in your estate plan, but now your children have children of their own. As such, you might want to plan for your grandkids too. How you plan for your grandkids in your estate will depend on whether they're...
Are you afraid your pet will outlive you?
California families who have a much-loved furry friend will usually take it for granted that they'll outlive their pets, but if you're an elderly person, you might not be so sure. Your faithful companion could outlive you and what will happen then? Who will take care...
Consider using a trust to pass money on to your children
Some Newport Beach parents think that they should start giving money away to their children right now, as they're getting older, to avoid different estate planning and tax consequences when they die. If you're one of these parents, you're definitely on to something....
How can I make sure my pet is provided for when I’m gone?
You probably weren't thinking about your last moments on earth when you adopted your pet, but time marches on and we may not always be available to care for our furry little friends. In the event you die before Fido, do you have a plan for his care?You might want your...
An overview of irrevocable trusts
Irrevocable trusts are popular options for people when they are going through the estate planning process for various reasons. These are not uncommon options, but most people tend to put regular trusts in place. When the option exists to create an irrevocable trust,...