Some people choose to prepare their own estate planning documents using “do it yourself” estate planning programs in order to avoid attorney fees. Having administered some wills and trusts that were so drafted by now deceased laypersons I can provide some observations regarding possible pitfalls. Having a trust that is […]
posted on: January 26, 2015
Read MoreSome people wish to pass down more than just their material wealth to their surviving descendants. They also wish to transfer their important values, life experiences and family traditions. All of which can help to shape the character and lifestyles of their descendants. Let us consider how such goals can be […]
posted on: January 26, 2015
Read MoreThe elderly and sick people who live alone and are isolated are unfortunate targets for predators who befriend them, become caregivers, and insinuate themselves into the elderly person’s estate. Accordingly, California law presumes that certain gifts by elderly persons — 65 and over — to their unrelated caregivers, are the result […]
posted on: January 26, 2015
Read MoreWhether assets are community property (belonging equally to both spouses, separate property (belonging wholly to one spouse) or mixed (partially separate and partially community) is an important issue when a marriage ends at death or divorce. Let us consider some examples involving life insurance, retirement plans and home purchases where the lines can get blurred. […]
posted on: January 26, 2015
Read MoreIs something missing in your estate plan? Do the documents that you rely upon still serve you and your loved-ones? There are certain recurring estate planning short comings to be aware of. Let’s discuss some important ones. In the event of incapacity is the power of attorney and living […]
posted on: January 26, 2015
Read MoreTwenty years since its creation, the Lake County Land Trust (“LCLT”) is going strong in its vital mission, “… to protect the unique and valuable wildlife habitats in Lake County, particularly on Clear Lake.” Let’s examine the LCLT’s successes, its ambitious new project, and how you can participate and contribute. […]
posted on: January 26, 2015
Read MoreLeaving an inheritance outright to a minor raises various concerns. Let us consider some important concerns and possible solutions. A frequent concern is that anything left to a minor may be taken away and used by a self-serving parent. For example, consider a couple who names their now single […]
posted on: January 26, 2015
Read MoreParents and children each have expectations of one another. Unfortunately, life does not always meet expectations and may lead to parents and child(ren) becoming estranged from each other. Estrangement often leads to the unhappy parent disinheriting their estranged child(ren). Why do these unfortunate situations come to pass? What usually happens? What […]
posted on: January 26, 2015
Read MoreThere are often particular assets in one’s estate which may require special consideration either due to its nature, value, or significance. Let us consider some types of special assets and how they might be handled. Businesses that require a license or special expertise will require that a special trustee […]
posted on: January 26, 2015
Read MoreParents with dependent adult children with disabilities or mental illnesses are naturally concerned about who will care for their children when they can no longer do so themselves. Dependent children, after all, often live at their parents’ home, receive substantial personal care and financial assistance from their parents and rely on their parents to […]
posted on: January 26, 2015
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