As you start researching wills, trusts, and advance directives, you’ll likely come across a range of options for creating your estate plan. Some firms offer a customized approach with the help of an experienced Santa Clara will lawyer, while others promote easily accessible DIY plans online. Understanding the difference between these two routes is crucial […]

As a parent or caregiver of a person with special needs, you understand that comprehensive planning extends far beyond childhood. You’ve likely established a special needs trust and put other important safeguards in place. But as the years pass, an important question arises: what happens when you or other chosen trustees are no longer able […]

Receiving a diagnosis of a progressive disease like Alzheimer’s is devastating for both the individual and their loved ones. Amidst the emotional turmoil, it’s crucial to address practical and legal planning to meet the evolving needs a progressive illness will bring. While it’s difficult to predict the exact trajectory, some plans made in the early […]

As a grandparent, your heart is filled with love and a desire to protect your grandchildren’s well-being. You’ve watched them grow and you dream about providing a foundation for their future success. But life is complex, and sometimes the question arises: can you ensure your legacy goes directly to them, even if it means bypassing […]

Making financial decisions when a parent requires long-term care in a nursing home must always be done carefully. If selling their house becomes a consideration, the potential involvement of a nursing home or government agency like Medicaid adds layers of complexity. The following are some general guidelines to be aware of when selling property under […]

We all know how the Cinderella story went—widowed dad, wicked stepmother, squandered inheritance. Unfortunately, it’s not just a fairy-tale risk. Without careful planning, a spouse’s passing followed by a later remarriage can leave children from your earlier union grappling for their inheritance. Let’s make sure those glass slippers remain a fashion statement, not a tragic […]

Life insurance isn’t just about protecting your loved ones financially when you’re gone; it’s an essential part of sound estate planning. Choosing the right policy offers peace of mind, allows you to leave a legacy, and potentially mitigates tax burdens. Understanding its role within your overall estate plan is key to making informed decisions.  How […]

Planning for death or incapacity isn’t a pleasant topic, but ensuring your affairs are in order can give peace of mind and ease the burden on your loved ones. A revocable living trust is a valuable tool in any sound estate plan to help accomplish these goals. With the help of a qualified Santa Clara […]

Drafting a will is a significant milestone in safeguarding your legacy. But once the ink is dry and your wishes are clearly outlined, a critical question remains: Who should actually have a copy of your will? Let’s unpack this with advice from a Bay Area estate lawyer. The Executor: Your Will’s Administrator First and foremost, […]

As tax season rolls around, it’s not just a time for crunching numbers; it’s also the perfect opportunity to review your living trust. With your financial information already in order and at your fingertips, a trust review can be a seamless part of your financial health check-up. But what exactly does “review your trust” entail? […]