Our Most Frequently Asked Estate Planning Questions
If you are thinking about creating or updating an estate plan, these answers can help you better understand what documents you may need, when to update your plan, and why working with an experienced estate planning attorney matters.
What Documents Are Needed for an Estate Plan?
A comprehensive estate plan typically includes a revocable living trust, a pour-over will, a durable power of attorney for finances, an advance health care directive, and a HIPAA authorization. Together, these documents help protect you during your lifetime and after your death.
Do I Need a Lawyer for Estate Planning?
California does not legally require you to hire an attorney, but working with a qualified estate planning lawyer is strongly recommended. Improperly drafted documents can lead to costly court proceedings, family disputes, and unintended outcomes.
Can I Do Estate Planning Online or With a DIY Kit?
Online tools and DIY kits may create documents that appear valid, but they often contain errors, omissions, or provisions that may not comply with California law. An experienced estate planning attorney can help make sure your plan works when your family needs it most.
How Often Should I Update My Estate Plan?
You should review your estate plan at least every three years and after major life changes such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, the death of a beneficiary, or a significant change in your assets.
How Can I Prevent Family Conflicts Over My Estate?
Free Resources to Help You Plan with Confidence
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How an Estate Plan Can Protect Your PartnerWhile California’s probate code privileges spouses and other close relations, it does little to accommodate unmarried couples. Our CA attorney explains.
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Using a 529 Plan to Reduce California Tax ObligationsA 529 plan provides an opportunity to save money for a loved one’s education while reducing an estate’s tax burden. Our CA attorney explains.
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Estate Planning Must-Do’s BEFORE You Go on VacationHeading on vacation? Don't forget estate planning! Discover must-do tasks to protect your family and assets before your trip. Learn more today.
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Making Sense of Medi-Cal AppealsAdverse Medicaid decisions can be devastating, but they are not final, and you have the right to file an appeal. Our CA attorneys explain.
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Would You Like to Downsize Your Home and Increase Your Retirement Income Without Paying Any Capital Gains Taxes?If you ever wanted to sell your home, but felt like you couldn't because of capital gains taxes, then be sure to consider getting a Capital Gains Bypass Trust!
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IRS: You Can Contribute More to Retirement Starting in 2023Contact our Torrance Trust Lawyer with information about how you can now contribute more to your retirement plans in 2023!
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How a Medi-Cal Asset Protection Trust Can Help You and Your Loved OnesMedi-Cal Asset Protection Trust Attorney Torrance
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What to Consider Before Giving an Early InheritanceAn early inheritance could help a young entrepreneur; however, it’s important to consider your future and your own retirement. Our CA attorneys explain.
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Another Celebrity Horror Story in the Making: Lessons from Anne Heche’s EstateAnne Heche Estate Planning
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How to Revoke or Alter an Irrevocable Trust in CaliforniaWhile irrevocable trusts are not designed to be changed, California law does allow amendments under certain circumstances. Our attorneys explain.
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Mistakes to Avoid With Payable on Death AccountsPayable on death accounts can help beneficiaries avoid probate, but only if those accounts are part of a more holistic estate plan. Our CA attorneys explain.
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What Happens When You Become Disabled?Trust Lawyer Torrance. Find out what to do in regards to a trust if you become disabled. California Trust Lawyer.
