Almost inevitably, problems arise when someone dies without an estate plan. Family members must guess what the deceased would want. Disagreements can prolong the process and lead to quarrels that may last for years. In California, courts may end up making key...
San Jose Estate Law Blog
What are the pros and cons of DIY wills?
Most Americans are aware that they need to have an estate plan, but current statistics suggest that only one in four Americans actually have either a will or an advance directive of any sort. Many people are turning to DIY will options available either online or...
What can you expect when contesting a will?
Whether you expect a loved one's death or it happens out of the blue, a will can provide some stability in these times of grief. But other times, they can be the source of complications. If you suspect someone is exploiting a last will and testament or believe that...
Estate planning supports your family’s financial security
California residents may support their family’s financial well-being by engaging in thoughtful estate planning. Kiplinger explains that it is never too early to start creating your estate plan. Our firm helps people create comprehensive plans that protect their...
Why and how do you dispute conservatorship?
California recognizes that all adults are capable of handling their own lives and affairs, but that is not the case for all adults. The elderly and infirm may become incapacitated enough to require a conservator for the management of their livelihood and financial...
Why do people modify estate plans?
When California residents create an estate plan, some make a mistake. They think this estate plan can remain untouched until their passing. Unfortunately, that is not the case. An estate plan should accurately reflect your current life circumstances. In other words,...
Video conferencing, phone calls and estate planning
In recent months, a lot of Americans are spending a considerable amount of time at home. Moreover, there are many reasons why people do not leave their homes or prefer to handle legal issues related to estate planning from their home, whether they have an anxiety...
What factors should you consider when appointing an executor?
Estate planning is not reserved for people who have just retired from their career or applying for medicare benefits. Whether you have started a family or purchased property, experts suggest you account for your property by creating a last will and testament. In this...
Should you have a living will?
When working on estate planning, there are many things to consider. Most people focus on asset protection and distribution, but it is also important to think about what happens if someone is unable to make medical and healthcare decisions. A living will is a legal...
Are e-wills a good idea?
While they are currently not valid in California, it seems it is only a matter of time before electronic wills are acceptable under the law. There are some states where they already are legal. Because so much of life is electronic now and the state does allow some...