When people become ill and discover the diseases they developed have no cure, the discussion of advance directives may arise as families gather to help decide which end-of-life care a loved one desires. These conversations are often difficult; however, discussing a...
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...
Family dynamics are often complex, but your children may need one another more than ever once you are no longer around to support them. Sometimes, conflicts over inheritances cause fractured relationships between siblings, but there are certain steps you might take...
A power of attorney is a good tool to have in your estate plan. It can be beneficial if you cannot act on your own behalf because it allows someone you appoint to do so. The person you appoint is the agent. This person has a lot of power, but it is not unlimited....
Many people know the power of wills and why it is important to have one in place before you die. However, a will is not the only way to manage your money after your death. More and more Americans are taking advantage of revocable and irrevocable trusts. Depending on...
When crafting your estate plan in California, it is important to avoid favoritism. Biased asset division can wreak havoc on an already-struggling family after your death. Here are some guidelines to help ensure family peace after your passing. How to avoid favoritism...
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...
An advance healthcare directive is a legal document that outlines your wishes related to healthcare. Although having one is not a requirement, there are numerous benefits to having one on file. There are four parts to an advance directive, and you can complete all or...
You may have mixed feelings when someone you are close with names you the executor over his or her California estate. On the one hand, the appointment means this person has a good deal of trust in you. On the other hand, it also means you need to take responsibility...
A power of attorney gives another person the ability to make decisions on your behalf. It is usually used as part of an estate plan to prepare for a situation in which you cannot make decisions yourself due to medical incapacity. The Superior Court of California...
