Aging is a natural part of life, but it brings with it complex challenges, especially when it comes to maintaining autonomy while ensuring the best decisions are made for one’s well-being. For many seniors, the idea of relinquishing control, even partially, can be daunting. They fear that legal documents like powers of attorney (POA) or […]

Every parent dreams of leaving behind a legacy for their children: a testament to years of hard work, dedication, and love. But what if you know, deep down, that your child might squander that inheritance? It’s a heart-wrenching thought, especially when you’ve envisioned those funds serving a more profound purpose or even trickling down to […]

Buying a home is a significant milestone, filled with decisions about location, size, and financing. However, there’s one critical decision that often goes unnoticed: whether to own your property in the name of a trust. While it might seem like a minor detail, this decision can have substantial implications for you and your loved ones. […]

Life is ever-changing, and so are our relationships. If you’ve previously designated someone as your agent in a Power of Attorney (POA) and feel that the dynamics of your relationship have shifted, it’s crucial to act swiftly. Begin by examining the reasons behind your initial selection. Think over the nature of your disagreement or distance. […]

The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) is poised to bring transformative changes to the U.S. business landscape, with a spotlight on corporate beneficial ownership reporting. This initiative represents a significant advancement in U.S. anti-money-laundering measures since the USA Patriot Act of 2001. But what does this mean for your small business or estate plan? Understanding the […]

The “estate” you own comprises much more than just real estate (land). Whether you have a modest income or sizeable assets, understanding the full scope of your estate is essential for planning purposes. Let’s delve into the various components of an estate with guidance from a knowledgeable Santa Clara County estate lawyer. Key Components of […]

Special Needs Trusts (SNTs) are designed to provide supplemental support to individuals with disabilities without jeopardizing their eligibility for government assistance, such as Medi-Cal or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). However, there are certain expenses that an SNT should not cover. Understanding these can prevent unintentional complications and preserve the trust’s integrity. Let’s dive deeper with […]

Designing a trust is a significant move in estate planning, one that provides flexibility and potential tax advantages. Central to the operation of any trust is the Trustee, responsible for managing and distributing the trust’s assets as per its terms. Given this responsibility, how financially knowledgeable should a Trustee be? Let’s uncover the answer with […]

“I’ll get to it later.” It’s a phrase many of us have uttered, especially when it comes to tasks that feel overwhelming or too distant to be pressing. Estate planning, for many, falls into this category. But as any experienced Santa Clara will lawyer will emphasize, in the world of wills and trusts, all too […]

As an experienced Santa Clara probate attorney, I often receive questions from clients about the relationship between life insurance proceeds and estate debts. Many beneficiaries are uncertain about whether they are obliged to use life insurance proceeds to cover the decedent’s debts. Here, I’ll delve into this issue, providing clear, easy-to-understand insights. Life Insurance Proceeds: […]