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...
San Jose Estate Law Blog
What should I know about when a power of attorney goes into effect?
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...
What duties do executors manage?
The executor of an estate manages quite a few tasks and acts as a central figure to the entire plan. Thus, it is crucial for a person to think carefully before naming anyone executor. One of the things to consider is the actual tasks that your executor will need to...
Are handwritten wills valid in California?
A will is an essential estate planning document that ensures that a person’s property passes on to heirs and beneficiaries as he or she intended. Typically a will is a typewritten document that at least two people must witness and sign. However, in some cases, an...
Taking a look at first-party special needs trusts
If you are thinking about creating an estate plan to help a disabled family member, or you have a disability and want to set up an estate plan for yourself, it is vital to understand various estate planning options and find the most advantageous strategy. Special...
How to handle estate disputes
The passing of a loved one is usually a sad time. However, it can also present challenging circumstances that cause arguments and disputes among family members. Whether or not there is a will, It is not unusual for there to be some sort of dispute regarding the...
Reviewing some of the benefits of spendthrift trusts
If you want to set up an estate plan, it is important to review the different options you have. You could decide that a will suits your needs most effectively, or you could decide to set up a trust. There are many different types of trusts, and it is essential to...
Reviewing common probate terms
If you currently find yourself in the middle of a probate case, or you worry that disagreements over a loved one's estate plan will ultimately lead to court, it is essential to go over a number of issues. Aside from reviewing the unique details surrounding the case...
A look at do not resuscitate orders
When it comes to estate planning, a number of critical forms make sure professionals carry out your wishes at different stages. These forms include beneficiary designations, wills, trusts, advanced directives and others. A do not resuscitate order lets medical...
How do you preserve your family’s money?
After working hard for your money, you want to make sure that it stays within your family for your loved ones after you pass. When you create an estate plan, you have to make sure your money goes to the people that you want it to go to. According to the U.S. News,...