Many people want to avoid probate, because they hear so many negative things about the process. It’s important to understand what’s involved in probate, so that you can better plan and decide whether you care if probate is avoided, or not. Take a look at the following information, to learn more. If you have any questions, or if you’d like to discuss probate avoidance techniques, contact an experienced and qualified estate planning attorney. Settling an Estate Probate is a lengthy … [Read more...] about Why You Should Avoid Probate
BLOG
Elder Law FAQ
Many seniors have elder law related questions about their future. If you or a loved one is a senior, it’s important to make sure that you have the right plan in place so that all of future needs are met. Take a look at the answers to some of the most frequently asked elder law questions. If you have additional questions or if you’d like to work on your individual plan, consult with a qualified elder law attorney. What care options do I have for the future? You can get the care that … [Read more...] about Elder Law FAQ
How Can Estate Taxes Threaten Your Assets?
One of the primary reasons for creating an estate plan is to ensure that the assets you accumulate over the course of your lifetime are distributed according to your wishes after you are gone. To have assets left to pass down, however, you must protect against any threats to your assets. As we will discuss below, you should know how estate taxes can threaten your assets. The Federal Gift and Estate Tax The federal gift and estate tax is effectively a tax on the transfer of wealth that is … [Read more...] about How Can Estate Taxes Threaten Your Assets?
8 Solid Reasons to Create an Estate Plan (Part 2 of 2)
Many people fail to realize how important it is to create an estate plan. You may be putting your planning off for several reasons, but it is, likely, in your best interest to take the time to plan as soon as possible. Take a look at the following reasons as to why you should starting handling your affairs. If you have any questions, or if you’d like to begin creating your estate plan, contact an experienced and qualified estate planning attorney. You want to plan for incapacity. You … [Read more...] about 8 Solid Reasons to Create an Estate Plan (Part 2 of 2)
8 Solid Reasons to Create an Estate Plan (Part 1 of 2)
If you have yet to create an estate plan, it’s important to realize the importance of having a plan in place. There are many benefits to planning, and you’re able to accomplish a number of goals. Not planning will leave you and your family unprepared. Take a look at the following information, to understand the 8 reasons it’s time to create a plan. If you have any questions, or if you’d like to review your estate plan, contact an experienced and qualified estate planning attorney. You … [Read more...] about 8 Solid Reasons to Create an Estate Plan (Part 1 of 2)
Can a Living Trust Help with Disability Planning?
One of the main benefits of living trust planning is disability planning. You maintain control over your finances only if you have disability planning; otherwise, the court may step in, through the conservatorship process, and takes over (even if you’re married.) Your disability trustees who you have hand picked have control over any assets that are funded into your trust. This means that those you select to step into your shoes, should you become disabled, can only manage, invest, and pay … [Read more...] about Can a Living Trust Help with Disability Planning?
Estate Planning Fact Sheet
Estate planning is an important legal process that everyone should implement. What can estate planning do? Estate planning allows you to choose who will get your assets; make important medical, financial, and guardian decisions ahead of time; and plan for challenging events in advance. If you want to have full control over your future, consult with a qualified estate planning attorney. Below are some answers to common estate planning facts. Everyone over the age of 18 should have an … [Read more...] about Estate Planning Fact Sheet
What Is the Difference between a Will and a Living Will?
When it comes to creating a comprehensive estate plan, the average person can become confused rather quickly given the vast number of unfamiliar documents and concepts that typically go into an estate plan. Even something as seemingly simple as a Will can be more complicated than it appears when you realize there are several types of Wills. What is the difference between a Will and a Living Will? Do you need both in your estate plan? Understanding the difference between a Will and a Living Will … [Read more...] about What Is the Difference between a Will and a Living Will?
Educating Your Family About Your Estate Plan
First the good news! You are to be congratulated for creating your comprehensive estate plan with our firm. You have gone a long way towards protecting yourself and your loved ones. If you have a trust-based plan, the protection level is increased for each asset that you own that has been properly coordinated with your trust. Most assets, such as real estate, bank accounts, investment accounts, mutual funds and business interests should be titled in the name of your trust. Others, such as … [Read more...] about Educating Your Family About Your Estate Plan
The Use of Trusts In Medi-Cal Long-Term Care Planning (Part II)
Last month we discussed generally how trust planning can be very useful in Medi-Cal Long Term Care planning. This month we’ll focus on specific types of trusts that can be useful in planning relating to Medi-Cal Long Term Care. They are: Medi-Cal Gifting Trust: This irrevocable trust is used to preserve clients' assets while still letting them qualify for Long Term Care Medi-Cal. With this trust, the person who creates the trust and puts his or her assets in the trust can't access the … [Read more...] about The Use of Trusts In Medi-Cal Long-Term Care Planning (Part II)
