Why everyone needs an estate plan

Whether you realize it or not, you need an estate plan. Unfortunately, many people labor under the misconception that estate plans are only for the rich. If you think you are too young or “too poor” to need an estate plan, think again.  Regardless of your age, your...

Evicting a commercial tenant in California

If you own commercial property, you may eventually need to evict a tenant for nonpayment or for breaching the terms of the lease. In California, business tenants have fewer legal protections than individual residential tenants do.  These are the processes you must...

Estate Planning Essentials

Now more than ever, it is imperative that each of us have a comprehensive estate plan in place. A properly executed Healthcare Directive, Power of Attorney for financial management, Will, and Trust allow us to express our wishes and make those wishes known to our...

Business In A State of Uncertainty

We are living through history with an unprecedented global health crisis.   From individuals and small businesses, all the way to the federal government, we are in a global period of uncertainty.  Unfortunately, this uncertainty not only impacts each one of us...

Avoiding common estate planning mistakes

Estate planning is not about planning for your future. Instead, it is about easing the future sense of loss among your loved ones.  It is easy to make mistakes that cause your survivors more heartache. You want to leave behind a loving legacy, not a legal mess. ...

Understanding the California probate process

Whether you are planning your own estate or serving as the executor of a family member’s will, knowledge of the California probate process can inform your decisions and actions. With probate, the state court supervises the process of administering a...

3 things to know about a power of attorney

There are many documents you may include in your estate plan in California. One option is a power of attorney. However, there are a few different types, so you want to familiarize yourself with them before deciding on which one to go with for your estate plan. Money...

How to recognize financial elder abuse

No one likes to think of a parent losing cognitive ability, yet it is common in older age. Unfortunately, dishonest people, including family members, like to take advantage of vulnerable seniors and defraud them of their assets both while they are living and even...

I am a trustee – now what?

As you take on the role of trustee, you probably have a lot of questions and concerns. This is understandable because it can be an intimidating and confusing experience. But, with the right help, you can fulfill your duties and carry out the wishes of the grantor....