Planning your estate in California can be a complex undertaking. But this is one task that needs to be completed for the sake of your estate and heirs. The sooner you have an official estate plan in place, the sooner your property and assets will be secure. Don't die...
The SPL Legal Pad Blog
3 estate planning changes to make when you file for divorce
Since your spouse is usually the person closest to you, they typically play a major role in your estate plan. When you file for divorce, even if you keep things amicable, you need to change your estate plan. There are multiple steps you need to take to protect...
Who inherits your assets if you die without a last will?
Misinformation abounds when it comes to inheritances and estate planning. You probably know that having a last will is important, especially if you have assets to pass on to others when you die, like real estate or investment accounts. Plenty of people think they know...
What avoidable mistakes could a startup entrepreneur make?
California entrepreneurs may wonder why so many startups struggle. Often, it's because the person launching the enterprise made several common mistakes. While making mistakes is not always avoidable, aspiring entrepreneurs should study the typical errors among startup...
The best reasons to put a home in a trust
If you own a home in the state of California, it may be in your best interest to put it in a trust. Doing so will keep it outside of your estate, which may allow you to retain greater control of it during your lifetime and after your passing. Take a look at some of...
Using an estate plan to protect vulnerable loved ones
Crafting an estate plan can benefit your loved ones as much as it benefits you. For instance, an estate plan can make difficult situations much easier on them. An estate plan can be especially valuable for loved ones with special needs. These parties have a lot to...
Estate planning in blended families
Many California families are blended and include children from previous relationships along with biological children of both spouses. Having a blended family can enrich people's lives. However, special issues might arise after one of the spouses passes away, making it...
Easements recognized in California
"Easement" is the term used to describe the right of another's property for a designated purpose. California law states that an easement can be established by four methods: express grant, implication, necessity, and prescription. Easement by express grant This type of...
Estate planning for families with high level assets
Families with high level assets often have different estate planning needs than other clients to ensure that their heirs receive as much money as possible. There are a few things that wealthy families in California and other states should keep in mind when...
Could pet care be part of estate planning?
Estate planning could involve more things than people realize. When engaging in estate planning in California, things might come to mind when looking at the proverbial big picture. Someone might eventually realize that when they pass away or become incapacitated,...