When it comes to estate planning, many turn to do-it-yourself (DIY) wills to save time and money. While these wills may seem sufficient for simple estates, they pose significant risks for those with international assets. Differences in international laws Every country...
Wills
Planning for organ donation with an advance directive
Advance directives ensure others honor your healthcare choices when you can't communicate. These documents spell out your decisions on medical care and more. In turn, this helps others understand your wishes during critical times. One significant choice you can...
Four reasons to include a letter of instruction with a will
When you plan your estate, you will likely create a will to outline how to distribute your assets following your death. However, a will alone may not fully express your wishes and preferences. Also, there is the chance your family might not understand all of your...
How to write your will to provide for a new loved one
Many people want to provide for loved ones in their wills. However, life is ever-changing. You can become close to someone even when you think your life is nearing its end. Including such people in your California will can be a meaningful gesture of care and support....
Are there different types of wills?
When it comes to planning for the future, many people think about writing a will. A will is a legal document that specifies how you want to distribute your assets after you die. In California, specific laws govern the process of creating a will, and understanding the...
What does not belong in a will?
A will is the legal document that travels through probate court after your death. It sets out how you want personal property handled and, ultimately, disbursed after your death. While it acts as a master key, of sorts, to your estate, there are exceptions to what it...
How do you reduce arguments over wills?
No one wants their will to lead to an argument among loved ones. However, these arguments are unfortunately common. Are there any ways to help reduce these potential arguments? Fortunately, the answer is yes. Communicate openly Forbes takes a look at arguments that...
How may I choose a personal representative?
California's probate laws require naming an individual in your will to serve as your personal representative or estate's executor. If you do not name anyone or the person you name is unavailable, the probate court may appoint someone to settle your affairs. As noted...
What can you do in the case of a no-contest will?
When writing a will, many people want to prevent their children, beneficiaries and other loved ones from fighting over an inheritance. A parent or grandparent's desire to stop in-fighting may result in him or her writing in a no-contest clause. What happens if you...
Tips for will asset division to children
The details of a will often involve the dividing up of the property to two or more children. In many cases, the writer of the will decides to equally divide these assets, but this might not always provide the best results. A variety of circumstances could change this...