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
- Page 3
-
We had a nice phone conversation.
-
Extremely courteous. We also had questions, in which we received answers.
-
Well organized and able to answer all questions to my satisfaction.
-
Being contacted by Jackie and having the opportunity to speak with Mr. Keon last week was beneficial. I was pleased to be able to make contact with you and get some follow up detail on the questions I had. Many Thanks to Mr. Keon
-
Informative and moved us forward.
-
Peter is very professional and helpful.
-
For my first interaction with the firm since ÇOVID, I had the opportunity for a phone consultation with Peter Keon. He was professional, curious, and answered each and every question I had. My family created Wills, Living Trusts and Estate Documents from them over the years, and Peter had the patience to review the status of each and every document today, offering insight and detail. I appreciated his willingness to answer 'basic' questions as well as those specific to my family's situation. I am grateful and appreciative.
-
Peter Keon is a dedicated professional and tactful in discussing personal issues such as a family trust. He didn't spare time and effort in dealing with final decisions. Much appreciated!
-
Staff answered all my questions.
-
Staff Pleasant, attentive, prepared.
-
Peter Keon has always been very helpful when we have met with him and currently via ZOOM.
-
Peter answered all of our questions. It was a good phone call.