Blog

Dec. 18, 2023

When a loved one passes away, it's an emotionally challenging time. The last thing anyone wants to worry about are the legal and financial aspects of their passing. However, if parents had a trust in place, there are certain steps that need to be taken.

Dec. 7, 2023

Trusts are powerful legal tools that can provide individuals with control over how their assets are managed and distributed. They come in various forms, each with its own unique features and benefits.

Oct. 25, 2023

Many individuals often establish living trusts – as part of their comprehensive estate plan – to preserve assets, property, and money for beneficiaries and future generations. However, when the trustor dies, disputes and disagreements may occur between surviving family members.

Sept. 20, 2023

Estate planning involves a wide range of documents and legal preparation to make sure your wishes are carried out and your assets are allocated accordingly to care for your loved ones in your absence.

Aug. 11, 2023

When you’ve spent your entire working life building up a retirement account, you may have questions about what will happen to it when you pass away. Who gets it when you’re gone? Can you choose who gets what? Will it be easy for your loved ones to navigate the process? These are all important questions to answer.

July 10, 2023

Estate administration is often needed to settle a deceased loved one's estate and final affairs when they die. Generally, this often involves gathering estate assets, paying taxes and debts, and transferring the remaining assets and funds to rightful heirs and beneficiaries. However, depending on state and federal inheritance laws, inheritors may be asked to pay taxes on any assets, property, or money passed onto them by the decedent.

June 1, 2023

Establishing an estate plan allows you to preserve your assets, make adequate provisions for loved ones, and prepare for future uncertainties. In addition, you can leave specific instructions regarding how your property, legal, health, and financial matters should be managed using your estate plan.

April 26, 2023

In 2023, there is no federal estate tax (or “death” tax) unless a person’s assets exceed $12.92 million, which is doubled for a married couple to $25.84 million. The State of California has no estate tax or inheritance tax. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) also allows $17,000 to be transferred as a gift without taxes annually.

April 7, 2023

Estate planning is a key part of planning for the future. However, many Americans don’t take it seriously. According to a recent study by the Caring website, two out of three Americans still don't have a will. Aside from setting up a typical last will and testament, individuals can set up something called a pour-over will. These types of documents can be effective in helping you and your family achieve peace of mind.

March 27, 2023

Going through a divorce is no easy task. Dealing with the legal ramifications of a separation can become overwhelming. That is why getting the right legal counsel helps people going through a divorce get their affairs in order.