Thanks to medical research, we enjoy longer and healthier lives. Many of us wish to contribute to these advancements even after passing. Whole-body donation is a selfless way to support the study of medicine and the development of new treatments. However, it’s a highly personal decision that deserves careful consideration and communication with your loved […]

Are you planning your estate and worried about how a gambling addiction could affect your child’s inheritance? You’re not alone. Many families face this difficult situation: wanting to provide for their loved ones while ensuring their hard-earned assets are protected. Understandably, you might worry about how to address this sensitive issue without alienating your child. […]

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 […]

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? […]