A: An amendment only changes particular sections of the trust while keeping everything else the same. A restatement, on the other hand, changes the ENTIRE trust content from beginning to end.
A: It depends. Under California law, the inheritance is initially considered separate property and would not be subject to an equal split in the event of a divorce. However, if you commingle the money by using it to create a joint bank account, a joint property or any...
A: In most cases, no. Assets you receive as a gift or inheritance typically aren’t taxable income at the federal level (some states have inheritance taxes though). However, if the assets later produce income (perhaps they earn interest or dividends, or you collect...
A: Yes! As an unmarried couple, it is important for you and your partner to each create an estate plan because the law does not grant unmarried couples who are not legally registered domestic partners the right to inherit from their partner's estate or priority in...
A: Yes! As an unmarried couple, it is important for you and your partner to each create an estate plan because the law does not grant unmarried couples who are not legally registered domestic partners the right to inherit from their partner's estate or priority in...
A: Absolutely! In California, a living trust is vital for those without direct heirs to bypass the probate process, ensuring assets like real estate or businesses are efficiently transferred to chosen beneficiaries. It's an effective way to control your estate's...
A: That's right! California law allows for a simpler process to transfer personal property for estates that fall under a certain value threshold (currently $184,500), making it quicker and easier for heirs to receive their inheritance, and without having to go through...
A: Your uncle's estate is considered intestate because he died without a Will. California's laws of intestate succession will be applied to determine the heirs of his estate. If he was married and had children, his spouse and children would be the heirs of his estate....
A: Imagine your trust as a storyline shared with your heirs and beneficiaries. With a complete restatement of your trust, only the latest version—your final narrative—gets shared after you're gone, ensuring a single, streamlined story. This approach contrasts sharply...
A: You're in luck! California's Revocable Transfer on Death Deed (RTODD) offers a cost-effective shortcut to leave your home directly to your heirs, bypassing the expensive and lengthy probate process. Depending on the individual circumstances of each client, this...
