Retirement accounts like IRAs and 401Ks require special attention in an estate plan because they have not been taxed yet, unlike other assets like savings accounts or regular investments. This means that taxes...
Property ownership triggers probate in every state where real estate is located if title remains in an individual’s name. California residents face an expensive primary probate plus separate ancillary probate proceedings in each additional state. Coordinating multiple...
Once your child turns 18, the law treats them as an adult, even if they are still living at home or heading off to college. Parents no longer have automatic authority to make medical, financial, or educational decisions on their behalf. For most college students, a few basic estate planning documents can...
Estate planning is not just for the wealthy or older adults, and waiting too long often creates more problems than it solves. Many people delay planning because of common myths that do not reflect how California estate law actually works. Clearing up these misunderstandings can help you make informed decisions and put...
Digital assets encompass any electronically stored property requiring username, password, or multi-factor authentication for access. This includes cryptocurrency, NFTs, digital music or media collections, cloud-stored photos and videos, online banking accounts, PayPal, Venmo balances, and reward programs—valuable items...
Passing down a family business takes more than naming a successor; it requires a plan that transfers ownership smoothly and protects the company’s future. Estate planning gives you tools to control how your business is valued, managed, and passed...
Losing capacity can leave your family without the authority to manage your finances or make health decisions. Early estate planning allows you to choose who will step in, how decisions will be made, and what protections you want in place before anything changes. Acting now gives you control while you still have...
Legal incapacity occurs when an individual lacks sufficient mental capacity to make informed financial or medical decisions, rendering them unable to sign documents, manage accounts, or consent to treatment. This applies automatically to anyone under...
Unforeseen death or incapacity strikes without warning, leaving operations vulnerable. Early planning addresses both voluntary retirement and sudden absence, ensuring continuity whether the goal involves selling, transferring, or closing the enterprise. Owners who delay risk chaos for...
When people start thinking about the future of their assets and their loved ones, two terms come up often: probate and estate planning. These concepts are related, but they serve different purposes. Understanding the distinction can help you make informed choices and avoid stress for your family later on.
