LEGAL BLOG
Trust Mill Scams
Trust Mill Scams. What’s Really Happening Behind the Scenes Trust Mill Scams. Estate planning scams are on the rise, especially in California. Seniors are losing an average of $34,000 per year to financial fraud schemes, according to the FBI’s 2023 elder‑fraud report....
Missing Will – What if I Cannot Find it?
Missing Will. A common occurrence after someone dies is that their estate documents cannot be found. The problem of the "missing will." They may have been lost, mistakenly destroyed, intentionally revoked, or simply hidden. Regardless of the reason, when someone...
How Much Does an Estate Plan Cost?
How much does it cost? The cost of estate planning varies because every person and situation is different. No two individuals are the same and no two families have the same goals. There are many factors that go into how much an attorney charges for a comprehensive...
Trustee Powers. What Powers Should I Give to My Trustee?
Trustee Powers. What does it mean? When you create a trust, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is what powers to give your trustee. A trustee can only act within the authority you grant — no more, no less. That means the powers you include in your trust...
Updating a trust–what does it mean?
Updating a Trust or Will: Can It Be Done? Clients often ask a simple but important question: “Can I change my trust?” The short answer is yes—often you can. But how, when, and to what extent depends on the type of trust and the law of your state. Key terms: revoke,...
What is a Deed
What is a Deed and Why is it Important A deed is a legally binding document and if you own real property, it is an essential part of an estate plan. A deed transfers ownership of real property from one party (the grantor) to another (the grantee). It is the written...
What is Intestate Succession?
What is Intestate Succession? When you die without a valid will, the law—not you—decides who gets your property. That process is called intestate succession. Many people assume their “closest” loved ones will automatically inherit, but that’s not always how it works....
What is Probate?
What is Probate? Probate is one of those legal processes most people have heard of but hope they never have to deal with. Yet, for many families—especially in California—it becomes an unavoidable reality. Probate is the court‑supervised process of gathering a deceased...
What is an Agent for Healthcare and Finance?
What is an Agent? Choosing the right agent—also known as an attorney‑in‑fact—is one of the most important decisions you will make in your estate planning process. An agent is the trusted individual legally authorized to act on your behalf when you cannot, whether due...
Incapacity
Incapacity. What It Is, Why It Matters, and How to Protect Yourself Before It Happens Incapacity is one of the most disruptive events a person can face; yet, it is rarely planned for. Whether caused by illness, injury, or age‑related decline, incapacity can leave you...
What is an Estate Plan?
WHAT IS AN ESTATE PLAN? An estate plan is the finished product—the complete set of legal documents that protects you, your assets, and the people you love. It is the blueprint that outlines what happens if you become incapacitated and how your estate is managed and...
What is a Power of Attorney?
A Power of Attorney is one of the most misunderstood — yet most essential — documents in any estate plan. It determines who can step in and manage your financial life when you cannot. Whether due to illness, incapacity, travel, or simple practicality, the person you...