One of the most common misconceptions about Powers of Attorney (POAs) is that they’re set in stone once signed. As an estate planning lawyer in Bay Area, I often reassure clients that this isn’t the case. The truth is, you can change your mind about your POA as long as you have the mental capacity […]

As a trust lawyer in Santa Clara, I often hear this question from homeowners who want to protect their assets but worry that their mortgage might stand in the way. The good news? Having a mortgage doesn’t prevent you from putting your home in a trust, and the process is typically straightforward. The Truth About […]

As a legal professional serving Silicon Valley, I have seen how successful client outcomes often result from close collaboration between social workers and attorneys. When a senior is hospitalized or residing in a care facility, this partnership becomes especially important in ensuring their needs are thoughtfully addressed. Understanding Our Complementary Roles Social workers play a […]

As a Santa Clara estate planning lawyer, I often meet with families who believe they’re fully protected because they have a will. While having a will is certainly better than no plan at all, relying solely on this document might leave unexpected gaps in your estate plan that could affect your loved ones. Let’s explore […]

As Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies reach unprecedented heights, more investors are entering the digital asset space. While the potential for returns is exciting, these investments present unique estate planning challenges that traditional assets don’t share. As a Bay Area will and trust lawyer, I’ve seen how proper planning can mean the difference between preserving or […]

Let’s be honest—estate planning probably isn’t at the top of your New Year’s resolution list. As a Silicon Valley will lawyer, I’ve heard every reason for postponing this important task: “I’m too young,” “I don’t have enough assets,” or the classic “I’ll get to it later.” But here’s the truth: later isn’t guaranteed, and tomorrow’s […]

When a loved one passes away with a reverse mortgage, it can add an extra layer of complexity to the estate administration process. As a Santa Clara estate administration lawyer, I often guide families through this challenging situation, helping them understand their options and obligations. A reverse mortgage allows homeowners aged 62 or older to […]

As a trust lawyer in Santa Clara, one of the most important conversations I have with parents of children with special needs is about succession planning for their child’s trust. While parents typically serve as initial trustees, choosing the right backup trustee is crucial for your child’s long-term security and care. Why Your Choice of […]

As an estate administration lawyer in Silicon Valley, I occasionally receive calls from families who need to “reopen” a probate case that was previously closed. While it may sound unusual, reopening probate happens more often than you might think, and understanding the process can help you navigate these situations effectively. What Does “Reopening Probate” Mean? […]

As we begin 2025, it’s the perfect time to review your estate plan. As a Bay Area will and trust lawyer, I’ve created this checklist to help you ensure your estate plan continues to protect what matters most. Life Changes That Need Your Attention Has 2024 brought any major life changes? Consider whether you’ve experienced: […]