In many cases, when a parent dies the family is not quite sure what needs to be done legally, to handle their assets. For most, one of the children has been named executor of a will left by a parent. Here you can find a step-by-step guide to handling your parent’s estate after their death. It is still a good idea to consult with an estate planning attorney to make sure you have everything covered. The first few days following your parent's death Before you can really start taking official … [Read more...] about Being the Executor of a Will Left by Your Parents
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Let an Asset Protection Lawyer Show you How to Protect your Assets
Asset protection can be big concern for you, especially if you own a business or commercial property. The possibility of legal claims and constant existence of creditors make it even more important to have an asset protection plan so that you don't run the risk of losing everything through some unexpected turn of events. There are different ways to legally protect your assets, including irrevocable trusts. Not every type of trust can accomplish proper asset protection. Let your asset … [Read more...] about Let an Asset Protection Lawyer Show you How to Protect your Assets
A Probate Lawyer Can Help With the Probate Process
When someone passes away, the money and other property making up their estate needs to be distributed to their heirs. In many cases, the estate must go through the probate process in order for those assets to be properly distributed. This process typically requires several steps, including proving the existence of a valid will (if there is one), identifying and inventorying the property, appraising the property, paying debts and taxes, and then distributing the remaining property. A probate … [Read more...] about A Probate Lawyer Can Help With the Probate Process
The Steps in Handling the Probate Estate
In the event of a loved one passing away, the property left in their estate must be distributed to the right individuals. Usually, that means the estate has to go through the probate process. The portion of the property that must go through probate is referred to as the probate estate. When it is time for the probate estate to go through these court proceedings, there are generally 7 basic steps required in the process. Here is what you need to know. Before the probate estate can be processed, … [Read more...] about The Steps in Handling the Probate Estate
Unexpected Death at Yosemite National Park Stresses Need for Estate Plan
The death of a loved one is always a huge blow to families. But, when that death is the result of an unexpected accident, the loss should also remind us of the need to have an estate plan in place. The time to begin your estate planning is now. Freak accident at Yosemite National Park Destiny Borges was a young woman who was working for a retail company that contracted with Aramark Yosemite Hospitality. While working in an area of the park called Half Dome Village, Destiny was unexpectedly … [Read more...] about Unexpected Death at Yosemite National Park Stresses Need for Estate Plan
Understanding the Benefits of a Testamentary Trust
One of the primary benefits of a trust is that the assets you include in the trust will likely avoid the probate process. There are different types of trusts, so you should discuss your options with your estate planning attorney first. A testamentary trust is a very common type of trust that is included in a will and does not go into effect until the person who created it dies. Here is what you need to know. Understanding a testamentary trust A testamentary trust is simply a trust that is … [Read more...] about Understanding the Benefits of a Testamentary Trust
Do I Need a Special Needs Trust?
One very valuable type of estate planning instrument is a trust. Trusts can give you a method for holding and managing your estate assets for the benefit of your loved ones. With a trust, you have the chance to provide your own instructions regarding how your assets should be distributed and under what conditions. A trust is a particularly valuable tool for those with loved ones who have special needs. A California special needs trust is a specific type of trust used for this exact purpose. … [Read more...] about Do I Need a Special Needs Trust?
Are You Getting All of the Veteran Benefits You Can?
For veterans living in the Sacramento area, you should know that there are a wealth of veteran benefits available to you through the Veterans Administration. Veteran benefits can generally include medical services in an assisted living facility, in your home, in a nursing home or provided by others, including friends, family members, or healthcare professionals. Ultimately, there are many veteran benefits for which you may be eligible that you are not aware of. So, are you getting all of the … [Read more...] about Are You Getting All of the Veteran Benefits You Can?
Sacramento Estate Planning Attorney Discusses Estate Planning and Divorce
Many clients do not realize that a divorce can have significant effects on estate planning. Whether you already have an estate plan in place or you need to start working on one, your estate planning attorneys can explain how a divorce will change your goals. While divorce is certainly stressful and difficult for most, it is still important to address any potential estate planning issues that may arise. Here is what you need to know to protect yourself and your estate if your marriage is … [Read more...] about Sacramento Estate Planning Attorney Discusses Estate Planning and Divorce
What Are the Steps to Probate a Will?
After the death of a loved one, the money and property included in the estate must be distributed to their heirs. In some situations, the estate is required to go through the probate process so that the assets can be properly distributed. To probate a will, the process requires completion of several steps so that the final distributions of the estate property can be made. Here is a basic description of the steps required in the California probate process. Before the probate process can … [Read more...] about What Are the Steps to Probate a Will?
