Money and property might be the most talked-about parts of a person’s wealth, but the wisdom, traditions, and experiences they pass down can be just as valuable—if not more. Your estate plan isn’t just about dividing assets; it’s a chance to reinforce the values that make your family unique. After all, leaving a legacy comes…
We’re celebrating love and estate planning in February’s newsletter—not with flowers and chocolates, but with strategies that show your sweetheart how much you care. This month, we cover three trusts that help protect your spouse, minimize taxes, and keep your legacy intact because true love means planning for the future together. Protect Your Wealth and…
Setting up trusts during estate planning offers asset protection, tax advantages, and a structured way to pass down wealth. However, in recent years, trusts have become a lucrative opportunity for scammers to set up too-good-to-be-true trust solutions, and the IRS has flagged fraudulent trust schemes designed to trick taxpayers into believing they can skirt tax…
By Christine M. Allen, Esq. Trust litigation is becoming an increasingly common occurrence after the death of a loved one in California. Regardless of how well-drafted or thought-out a trust is, anyone with a grievance or perceived grievance can file a lawsuit. While you can’t necessarily stop someone from suing, there are proactive measures you…
Debt is a growing reality in the United States, with many Americans expected to pass away while still owing money. Unfortunately, a loved one’s debts don’t simply vanish. While some, like federal student loans, may be forgiven, others—including private loans and cosigned accounts—remain. Common debt includes: Debt is a reality many families must confront in…
January’s newsletter focuses on an essential aspect of estate planning—incapacity planning. While it’s difficult to think about being unable to make your own choices, having a plan in place ensures that your wishes are honored. The tools highlighted in this month’s newsletter will help you take control of your future with confidence and peace of…
Happy New Year! As we step into 2025, it’s the perfect time to think beyond run-of-the-mill resolutions and focus on something that truly protects your loved ones: estate planning. For this reason, our estate planning attorneys would like to bring up some key estate plan considerations in the new year: Be Careful Relying on Life…
In a recent blog post, we discussed why young adults should consider an estate plan before heading off to college. Among the essential tools we highlighted are a HIPAA authorization and a medical power of attorney. While no one likes to think about medical emergencies, being prepared provides young adults and their families with reassurance…