An estate plan is only as strong as the people chosen to carry it out. From trustees and guardians to powers of attorney, these roles hold immense responsibility. Brian Chew, Managing Partner at OC Wills and Trusts, explains how to make these critical decisions, what qualities to prioritize, and the pitfalls families...
OC Wills & Trust Attorneys founder shares insights on building comprehensive estate plans that go beyond legal documents.
September 25, 2025. Irvine, California. (Law Firm Newswire) Brian Chew, Esq., Managing Partner of OC Wills & Trust Attorneys, is featured in the podcast, Estate Planning: Beyond...
Estate administration refers to the process of managing a person’s affairs after they pass away. In Irvine and throughout California, this often involves probate, trust administration, or other procedures depending on how the individual arranged their estate. These responsibilities may include collecting assets, paying final debts, filing necessary paperwork, and distributing property...
Many married couples assume their spouse will automatically be allowed to make medical decisions if something goes wrong. While that may seem like common sense, the reality isn’t always that simple. Hospitals and healthcare providers often need more than just a marriage certificate when determining who can speak for an incapacitated patient.
Estate planning attorney Brian Chew, Managing Partner at OC Wills and Trusts, explained that one of the biggest dangers he sees in his practice comes from misinformation. Whether it’s advice from the internet or misconceptions passed down through conversations, families often...
Brian Chew explained that many parents consider adding their children to the title as a way to avoid probate. The thought process is that when a parent passes away, the...
Brian Chew explained that the most common reason to update an estate plan is changing relationships, not just changing assets. Events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of children or grandchildren, or the passing of a loved one often...
Effective estate planning ensures family wealth is preserved across generations, and dynasty trusts offer a robust solution for achieving this goal. This episode of Estate Planning Beyond the Binder examines dynasty trusts in California, detailing their role in providing lifetime asset protection for children against creditors, divorce, and poor financial...
Planning for a medical emergency isn’t something most of us want to think about, but for LGBTQ+ individuals and families, it’s especially important. When something unexpected happens, you want to be sure that the person making decisions on your behalf truly understands and respects your wishes. A healthcare directive gives you control...
Many LGBTQ+ individuals in Southern California want to make sure a trusted partner, friend, or chosen family member can legally step in to manage their finances if something unexpected happens. Without the right documents in place, even someone close to you may not have access to your bank accounts or the ability...
