Navigating Inheritance in Blended Families
The Wall Street Journal (Ashlea Ebeling) 06.01.24, published the article “The Brady Bunch Breaks Down: Estate Fights Tear Stepfamilies Apart.” The article provides real-life examples of blended families facing legal battles and discord due to…
SCINs Explained: Minimizing Gift and Estate Taxes
The IRS imposes a gift or estate tax on the transfer of money or property from one individual to another, with certain exceptions. One exception that we’d like to delve into is the self-canceling installment…
Estate Planning Lessons From Famous Moms
Estate planning can be a sensitive subject, but the experiences of iconic figures like Gloria Vanderbilt, Aretha Franklin, and Lucille Ball offer valuable estate planning lessons. This month’s newsletter explores their practices and pitfalls to…
Back to Basics: One-Sided Contract Acceptance
By James C. Man, Esq. In the nuanced and complicated world of corporate and contract law, there are three fundamental properties that all agreements must have: offer, acceptance, and consideration. Generally speaking, once an offer is…
Incorporating Charitable Giving In Your Estate Plan
Many individuals choose to incorporate a charitable bequest into their estate plan. For some, this decision stems from a deep sense of altruism; for others, the drive is the significant financial advantage. Yet, for the…
Your Business Succession Strategies
Your business is likely one of your most valuable assets. For this reason, business succession planning is crucial when creating an estate plan. A business succession plan clearly defines who will take on which roles,…
What Is the Generation-Skipping Transfer Tax?
In this month’s newsletter, we provide a comprehensive understanding of the Generation-Skipping Transfer Tax and its implications. With each transfer of wealth, federal estate taxes are collected. Typically, money goes from spouses to children, then…
All About Intrafamily Loans
An intrafamily loan is a financial agreement between a family member who borrows money from a lending family member. These loans benefit children and grandchildren learning to be financially responsible but may have difficulty obtaining…
Division of Property for Unmarried Couples Post-Separation in California
By Justin J. Lee, Esq. It is common knowledge that California is a community property state. In community property states, spouses jointly own nearly all assets and debts acquired in marriage. Generally speaking, community property…
Beware! Nonlawyers Who Act Like Lawyers
Many people misinterpret estate planning as merely obtaining documents to show their wishes regarding the distribution of their assets after their passing. However, estate planning is much more intricate. Undoubtedly, estate planning is a multifaceted…
Shauna Anderson Is Featured in Orange Coast Magazine’s Annual Power Women Issue!
We’re thrilled to announce that our very own Shauna Anderson is featured in Orange Coast Magazine‘s annual Power Women special issue! Shauna’s exceptional leadership, skill, and unwavering determination to make a positive impact in Orange…
The Executor’s Role During Probate
When drafting a will, a crucial decision involves selecting the individual who will act as the executor of your estate. This person is the representative tasked with executing the instructions you provide in your will…
Explore Dynasty Trusts in Our Latest Newsletter
In our latest newsletter, we delve into the intricacies of dynasty trusts. If you have a high net worth, this is one of the best ways to protect your family and transfer your estate. However,…
Standing in Elder Financial Abuse Litigation
By David M. Huynh, Esq. All too often, a person may feel that an elderly loved one is clearly being taken advantage of by another – whether it be a friend, close family member, or…