The executor of a will has a responsibility to carry out the final wishes of the deceased. This includes significant duties and an expectation for honest, diligent and responsible decision-making. When an executor breaches those responsibilities, it may constitute...
San Jose Estate Law Blog
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...
5 mistakes to avoid when writing a will in California
Crafting a will is a critical process, one that demands thoughtful consideration and attention to detail. A well-written will can help carry out your wishes after your death, providing peace of mind for both you and your loved ones. As you set about writing your will...
How can you talk to your elderly parents about estate planning?
One of the topics you may hesitate to discuss with your aging parents is what may happen to their assets and property after they die. Trying to find the right time and method of discussing this sensitive subject is important. Learning more about how to talk about this...
Most common reasons for beneficiary disputes of an estate plan
Estate planning can be a complex process. After all, it involves making decisions about the distribution of assets after a person's death. Unfortunately, disputes among beneficiaries can and do arise, causing stress and conflict at a time when loved ones should be...
Do you need advanced directives in your estate plan?
In the realm of estate planning, you can achieve peace of mind from knowing others will respect your healthcare wishes even if you become incapacitated. This assurance comes through advanced directives. You might wonder if you need these legal tools as part of your...
Does estate planning take longer for those with a high net worth?
Estate planning is a crucial process that individuals undertake to ensure the orderly distribution of their assets and protect their loved ones' financial future. However, for individuals with high net worth, the complexity and scope of estate planning can pose unique...
Trusts and SSI benefits
When creating a trust, you need to take various factors into consideration, such as going over different types of trusts and the pros and cons of each option. If you receive supplemental security income (SSI) or plan on applying for SSI in the future, it is important...
Determining when to contest a California will
Contesting a will in California is a complex and sensitive matter that you should approach with careful consideration. Understanding the circumstances in which it may be appropriate to contest a will is crucial to protect your rights and ensure a fair resolution. This...
Is now the time to update your estate plan?
Creating an estate plan is an important thing to do. However, the simple creation of the plan is not where things end. For the best results, it is important for people to update their estate plans somewhat frequently. But how does a person know when to do that?...