In the wake of a loss, you might be considering contesting a loved one’s will. But before embarking on this path, it’s crucial to understand the legal process, potential grounds for contest and the significant implications involve…
Your loved one may have appointed an agent through a power of attorney (POA) to ensure their affairs are well managed if they become incapacitated. Therefore, you have a right to be concerned about the agent’s actions or even the …
Inheritance-related disputes can have a lasting impact on everyone involved. This explains why most people create estate plans to make clear their wishes when they are no longer around to speak for themselves. Unfortunately, inher…
We all want to leave an inheritance to the people we care about when we die. This explains why most people write wills. Done right, a will can ensure that your assets pass down to your dependents per your wishes. However, estate t…
If you’re planning for the future, then you may be thinking about making an estate plan. An estate plan allows you to anticipate your passing and instruct what happens to your assets afterward. The main legal document in your esta…
Many types of debts still have to be paid even if someone passes away. Tax debt is one example, as the government still may want payments for property taxes or income taxes. Another example could be a car loan or a home loan. Ther…
A trustee is the person who manages a trust’s property and general finances. That’s a powerful position. As such, they have what is called a “fiduciary duty” to put the interest of the trust and its beneficiary ahead of their own….
Undue influence isn’t something that is limited to estate planning, even though that’s where it often shows up. It just happens when one person uses a position of power to influence the other person to make a decision that is not …
The role of an estate executor is a position of considerable responsibility and trust. When a person is appointed executor of an estate, they must manage and settle it. This role is governed by a set of fiduciary duties that are l…
Most people want to leave an inheritance for the people they love when they die. And when you’ve worked hard your entire life to make wealth, it’s only sensible that you leave as much of it as you can to your loved ones. It’s for …
Handling someone else's large estate in California is not an easy job. Sometimes, the executor may see it fit to obtain a surety bond, or the probate court might order it based on the individual circumstances. Here's how that work…
California intestacy law dictates how assets held in your estate are allocated if you die without a will or a trust. State law may also take effect if your will or trust is found to be invalid for any reason. Therefore, it's impor…
