Preparing for the death or incapacitation of an executor
The death of a loved one is an unfortunate but unavoidable time for families throughout California. One way people can provide for their loved ones after passing away is with a proper estate plan. And there’s almost no more vital role in someone’s estate plan than the executor. When an executor’s duties become official An […]
How does ancillary probate work?
Sometimes the probate process that occurs after a person’s death can become much more complicated. This is often the case in the state of California where certain residents may own property that exists in other states. Navigating such a probate case can be difficult as a beneficiary or executor of a will, but the law […]
This is the time to update your estate plan
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 important to review and update your estate plan on a regular basis to […]
Problems for heirs inheriting a California home with a reverse mortgage
Agents sell reverse mortgages to seniors who need money to meet their living expenses. When the senior dies without paying the reverse mortgage, the heirs generally have between one and six months to turn the home over to the mortgage company or pay off the loan balance. If you have inherited a house with a […]
Strategies for challenging a power of attorney
Financial planners encourage people in California to execute power of attorney (POA) documents in case of an unforeseen emergency. The POA allows the principal to name an agent to act on their behalf in financial and/or healthcare matters. The document generally takes effect when the principal loses the ability to manage their own affairs. As […]
Handling sibling inheritance issues
Disputes might arise among siblings who are taken aback by the terms of a will. It’s also common for siblings in California to feel that their assets have been unjustly allocated. What happens during a sibling inheritance case? Inheritances (including money, real estate, and jewels) are usually dispersed to heirs according to the terms of […]
What should every California estate executor know?
If a deceased person leaves behind a will, they will choose an executor for their estate. If no will exists, a California probate court appoints an executor. This person takes on the financial responsibility for sorting the estate’s debts and assets. Fiduciary duty Every estate executor maintains a fiduciary duty to the estate and its […]
A living trust vs. a will
California is a state that’s full of hard-working people. After working most of their lives, many people understandably want to protect their estate. If you are in the process of doing so, you may have heard about wills and living trusts. With that in mind, here’s a closer look at how wills and living trust […]