The California Department of Public Health has reported that two infants were recently born in California with microcephaly, as a result of the Zika virus. This particular disease, which results in infants being born with a disproportionately smaller head and intellectually disabilities, has been linked to mothers who were infected with the Zika virus while pregnant. The virus is carried by a specific breed of mosquito and is transmitted to humans who are bitten. Infants born with defects … [Read more...] about Two California Infants Born with Zika-Related Birth Defects
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What Intestate Succession Means for Your Estate
One of the purposes of estate planning is to prepare for our deaths. One reason a probate lawyer needs to know about the probate code is to understand the laws of intestate succession. These laws determine who gets what if you die without a will. In general terms, if you die without a will in California, your assets will go to your closest relatives. Here is what intestate succession means for your estate. California's Laws of Intestate Succession If you die with surviving children, but … [Read more...] about What Intestate Succession Means for Your Estate
The California Probate Process
Probate is the process through which an individual's assets (cash, personal property and real property) which are included in their estate, are distributed to their heirs. The basic probate process requires completion of several steps in order to close probate and make those distributions. This article will explain those basic steps as required in the California probate process. A personal representative must first be established Before the probate process can start, it is necessary for the … [Read more...] about The California Probate Process
Things to Know about a Roth IRA
When it comes to retirement planning, it is never too late to start. The truth is, you be able to safely rely on your Social Security benefits. Instead, you should be proactive and create your comprehensive retirement plan now. That way, you can relax and enjoy your retirement the way you always hoped you would. One easy way to get started is by opening Individual Retirement Accounts which can help you start saving and investing in your future. One valuable type of IRA is a Roth IRA. Here … [Read more...] about Things to Know about a Roth IRA
Reductions in Retiree Pensions in Sierra County Become a Concern for Many
If you are a California resident with a career in public service, you should are most likely familiar with the California Public Employee's Retirement System or CalPERS. CalPERS has provided retirement benefits for public service employees for more than 80 years. The CalPERS pension fund currently serves more than 1.7 million members. However, the residents of one Sierra County town may have a significant concern about their retirement. Unexpected pension issues are one reason why retirement … [Read more...] about Reductions in Retiree Pensions in Sierra County Become a Concern for Many
In Estate Planning, Trusts are Key
In estate planning, trusts are one of the most valuable estate planning tools you can use. Trusts are useful at minimizing estate taxes and in avoiding costly probate. There are actually many benefits. But, when it comes to trust administration, it is equally important to understand what is involved and to choose the right person or entity to serve as your trustee. The legal definition of a trust Trusts are essentially fiduciary agreements between a trustee and the trustor, who is the person … [Read more...] about In Estate Planning, Trusts are Key
Can I use my Irrevocable Trust to Protect my Property?
Asset protection can be big concern for some, especially those who own a business or commercial property. The potential for 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 an irrevocable trust. Not every type of trust can accomplish proper asset protection. Here is why … [Read more...] about Can I use my Irrevocable Trust to Protect my Property?
Sacramento Estate Planning Attorney Clarifies Common Misconceptions
Estate planning means preparing for possible incapacity and inevitable death. An estate plan can include many different types of documents, including wills and trusts. The variety of tools available will allow for a customized and comprehensive estate plan. There are many misconceptions regarding estate planning. Here your Sacramento estate planning attorney will dispel some of the common myths. Estate plans are not only for the rich or elderly One common misconception is that, if you are … [Read more...] about Sacramento Estate Planning Attorney Clarifies Common Misconceptions
Sacramento Probate Attorney Discusses Alternatives
It may be the goal of most clients to avoid probate, not everyone actually knows what that means, or how to accomplish it. Estate planning can accomplish many goals and avoiding probate is one of them. But, avoiding probate does not necessarily mean avoiding estate taxes. So, first you need to understand what probate involves and then consider one of the four ways a probate attorney can help you avoid the process. What probate involves and why it is necessary One way to look at the process … [Read more...] about Sacramento Probate Attorney Discusses Alternatives
Special Needs Trust Attorney Describes Types of Trusts Available
Trusts are very valuable estate planning tools that provide a way to hold and manage assets for the benefit of your loved ones. You have the opportunity to include your own instructions as to how the property should be distributed and under what circumstances. A trust is an especially valuable tool if you have a loved one with special needs. Special needs trusts are a particular type of trust used just for this purpose. If you are considering whether you need this type of trust, your special … [Read more...] about Special Needs Trust Attorney Describes Types of Trusts Available
