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 […]

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 […]

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? […]

Choosing an executor for your will can feel like a high-stakes decision. After all, this person (or people) will be responsible for managing your estate, honoring your final wishes, and navigating the complexities of probate. So, what happens when you find yourself torn between trusted individuals? Here’s a friendly guide on why naming multiple executors […]

In the intricate dynamics of blended families, one common and crucial question arises: what inheritance rights does a child from a previous marriage have? This is especially important when planning for the future and ensuring fairness for all family members. If you’re in a blended family with stepchildren, understanding these legal intricacies is essential. Legal […]

As a parent, ensuring the long-term well-being of your child, especially if they have special needs, is paramount. If your minor child is receiving a settlement due to a lawsuit and will require care throughout their life, it’s crucial to manage these funds wisely. One effective solution is establishing a first-party special needs trust, a […]