Estate Planning And Business Law In Napa Valley And Beyond

Q: My grandfather promised me several times before he died that he would leave his house to me. He recently died and left a will naming my aunt as the beneficiary of his house. Is there anything I can do?

A: Possibly. If you have a claim to an estate or inheritance that is based on a promise or an agreement, then you can file a claim under Civil Procedure Code Section 366.3. However, be aware that the claim must be filed no later than ONE year from your grandfather's...

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Q: My husband and I want to create a trust, but we aren’t sure if we want more kids. If we create a trust, will we have to change it if we have more children?

A: No, your trust can be created to include any children you have now and any children that you may have in the future. Amending your trust in the future is an option if you want to change any of its provisions, but you can rest assured that it can be created...

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Q: My brother and I want to buy a Napa investment property together, but he is able to invest more than I can. Can we own different percentages of the property?

A: Yes, you can! In California, two individuals can take title to real property as tenants-in-common, and in whichever percentages the owners agree on. For example, your brother could own an 80% interest as a tenant-in-common while you own a 20% interest as a...

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