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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The #1 Mistake Families Are Making (and They Don’t Even Know It!)Don't let procrastination derail your estate planning. Act now to protect your assets and loved ones. Attend a seminar or review your plan today.
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Common Misconceptions About Living TrustsWhen it comes to estate planning, we often hear quite a bit about Wills (or Living Wills) in media and movies. We rarely hear ... Estate Planning Attorney
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How living trusts can help loved ones with disabilitiesMany people worry about how their passing will impact their loved ones. For those who have children with special needs, ...
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What’s the Difference Between a Will and a Living Trust?You have worked hard throughout your life to accumulate the assets that you have during your lifetime, so it's only natural ... Living Trusts
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Hugh Hefner’s Assets in TrustsWhile there may not be many assets in Hefner's estate, there are assets held in trusts. Questions have been raised about ... Estate Planning
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Jerry Lewis Cut Sons Out of WillComedian apparently had severed all ties with first wife and their children. As some of the details from the will of ... Estate Planning
