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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New Elder Abuse Law Passed In KansasThe law is aimed at protecting people 70 and older who are victims of financial abuse. People convicted of large-scale abuse ... Elder Law
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Traditional IRA Or Roth IRA?Enlisting the help of a qualified wealth management professional to determine which type of IRA will best support a person's ... Asset Protection
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For Want Of A Beneficiary Will The IRA Be Lost?An IRA account owner or beneficiary died and there was no named beneficiary for the account. The obvious question comes, ... Elder Law
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Alzheimer’s And Dementia – No Time Like The Present To PlanMost people want to talk about these issues, advisors admit. But because so many people with Alzheimer's cannot communicate ... Estate Planning
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When Baby Boomer Retirees InheritFor those retirees who had not planned on receiving an inheritance or are happily surprised at the amount they receive, it's ... Elder Law
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Annual Gift Exclusion Opportunities AboundHere is some background on what is known as the "annual gift-tax exclusion." You can give away as much as $14,000 ... Estate Planning
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The Gift that Keeps on Giving?In the countdown to April 15, many people rushing to prepare their individual income tax returns will overlook another key ... Estate Tax
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Blended Family Estate Planning – Practical Pointers"Blended" families - which include children from earlier unions - have become the norm. The diplomatic challenges ... Blended Family
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Asset Protection Planning – Plan Now, or Lose LaterAsset Protection is pre-claim planning for those who are concerned that someday they might become liable to creditors ... Asset Protection
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Changes on the Horizon for Reverse Mortgage Loans in Los Angeles CaliforniaDiscover upcoming changes to reverse mortgage loans in Los Angeles and how they could impact senior homeowners’ finances, equity, and estate planning.
