It’s not something most people want to think about, but funerals, even modest ones, can be very expensive. Many families pay more than $10,000 for services, burials or cremations, and other aspects of a loved one’s funeral. One idea that Santa Clara estate administration lawyers have seen grow in popularity over the years is paying […]

While digital assets have been around for quite some time, it seems like only very recently have people been making them an integral part of their investment portfolio. We won’t weigh in on whether that’s a good or a bad thing; however, we will explore the effect of digital assets on estate planning. Namely, what […]

When you ask someone what they know about estate planning, most people will tell you about the Last Will and Testament. In fact, very few people will mention a Pour-Over Will.  Today our Silicon Valley estate planning lawyers will explain the difference. While a Last Will and Testament is a standalone legal document that directs […]

The estate planning process is sometimes initiated by one spouse, while often being met with hesitation by the other. The reasons are totally understandable, since thinking about death or incapacity can bring many uncomfortable feelings. There is also a sense of comfort in the fact that “ignorance is bliss,” as many people don’t want to […]

Asset protection strategies help keep your money out of the hands of nursing homes, litigators, and other financial predators. Keep reading to learn about five of the best asset protection strategies to help you keep your money right where it is. Create an Irrevocable TrustExperienced Bay Area estate planning attorneys often recommend trusts for many […]

Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) are savings vehicles that allow a tax deduction to be taken when you contribute to the account. The maximum contribution in 2021 is $6,000, plus those age 50 and over may contribute an additional $1,000. The income is not taxable while the assets are held in the IRA, however, the distributions […]

There are several different trusts available to achieve asset protection planning goals and to ensure you leave a legacy behind for your loved ones. One of the most common trusts to help achieve these goals is an irrevocable life insurance trust, also called ILIT. These trusts protect the benefits of your life insurance policies by […]

As a Silicon Valley trust attorney, I help many seniors set up Revocable Living Trusts to avoid probate proceedings and to give clear instructions on how they want their assets and property handled after death. The Grantor creates a trust when it is signed and funded with assets or property; that means anything used to […]

All parents who have a child with special needs want to make sure that those children are taken care of in every instance—most importantly, after the parents have passed away or can no longer provide personal care for the child. Creating a special needs trust is extremely crucial in keeping that continuity of care and […]

Santa Clara County guardianship lawyers are asked this question nearly every day! The answer is…maybe. Before you begin to worry, let us explain. When nonmarried parents have a formal custody agreement and one party passes away, that custody agreement is no longer valid. In most cases, the child’s permanent custody would revert to the surviving […]