Deciphering the SALT Workaround
The state and local tax (SALT) deduction permits taxpayers who itemize when filing federal taxes to deduct certain taxes paid to state and local governments. However, the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act imposed a…
Litigation vs. Mediation vs. Arbitration – what is the best route for you?
By Matthew G. Stein, Esq. As a trial attorney, I often advise my clients that cases are won or lost on the opening statement – after that, you have very little control in a trial…
Trustee Duties When Trustor Is Incompetent
So, you’ve found yourself in the position of trustee and are managing your loved one’s estate while they are still alive. What are your duties to account to the eventual beneficiaries of your loved one’s…
Protecting Your Digital Legacy
How to Manage Your Photos, Data & Social Media Accounts After You Die Thinking about your “digital legacy” may seem strange but given the amount of data and content we all use and create (think…
Careful With Your Crypto!
A few weeks ago, the Rams won a Super Bowl for the first time since they have called Los Angeles “Home”. One of their stars, Odell Beckham Jr. (“OBJ”), signed a one-year contract prior to…
New Year! New Attorneys! Same First-Rate Counsel!
As we enter a new year, we extend our appreciation and gratitude to both our existing and new clients. We have a genuine passion for what we do and we thank you for trusting Law…
‘Tis The Season…For Tax Exempt Gifting!
As the holidays are fast upon us, many are concerned with ensuring they have the perfect gifts for their loved ones. However, gifts are not only the wrapped goodies left under the tree or on…
Cryptocurrency & Estate Planning
Cryptocurrency or virtual currency (used interchangeably) has become quite the coveted asset among investors because of the seemingly lucrative return due to its fast appreciating nature. Cryptocurrency has also been the subject of growing interest…
New SALT Cap Workaround (AB 150) May Provide Tax Savings for You
California has enacted AB150, joining the growing list of states implementing a workaround on the current $10,000 cap on state and local tax deductions. A Little Background In 2017, as part of the Tax Cuts…
When the Deceased Leaves a Spouse Off of Their Will, California Assumes They Just Forgot
Just got remarried? Time to update the estate plan! Just had a baby? Time to update the estate plan! Remembering to update your estate planning documents, (your will and trust), may not be top of…
Prop 19 Is In Effect. Is There Still Time To Avoid Reassessment?
The good news? There still may be hope for those who missed the boat on planning before Prop 19 became effective! Prior to February 16, 2021, real property was reassessed at market value if it…
Inheritance Dispute? Don’t Just Sit There. Mediate!
“Why did my dad leave most of his money to charities and not his kids?” “It’s unclear what my father’s intentions were with our family vacation home.” “My mom left a handwritten document stating who…
Digital Assets. What Are They & How Do I Protect Them?
Our lives essentially revolve around technology and this trend is only continuing to grow. Nearly all of our important documents and files, whether they be personal, business or financial, are stored on various digital platforms…
“Dedicated.” “Determined.” “Compassionate.” Just a Few Client Descriptions of Our New Attorney!
We hope this newsletter finds you and your family healthy and happy in the first quarter of this new year. We are excited to share some news so without further ado, let’s share! Our number…