Nearly 30 Years Of Representing Businesses And Their Owners

California Estate Planning, Probate & Tax Lawyers

The firm provides complete services in estate planning, probate, and tax matters. Attorneys in our estate planning and probate group include two who are certified by the State Bar as specialists in estate planning, probate, wills and trusts. Emphasis is given to the individual attention required for proper planning. Serviced include:

Living and Probate Avoidance Trusts
Wills
General Estate Planning
Probating of Wills and Will Contests
Representation before Federal, State and Local Tax Agencies
Tax Planning
Conservatorships

Comprehensive Estate Planning Services

We provide a full range of estate planning services tailored to individual needs.

Living Trusts vs. Wills

Living trusts and wills allow individuals to distribute their assets, but they function differently. A living trust manages assets during a person’s lifetime and avoids probate after death, offering more control and privacy. A will takes effect after death and must go through probate. Without a will, state laws determine asset distribution, which may not align with personal wishes.

Probate And Will Contests

The probate process involves validating a will, settling debts and distributing assets. Disputes may arise if beneficiaries challenge a will’s validity due to undue influence, fraud or improper execution. Our attorneys represent clients in probate proceedings and will contests, helping resolve conflicts efficiently.

Conservatorships And When They Are Necessary

When an individual becomes unable to manage their affairs due to illness or incapacity, the court may appoint a conservator to handle financial or personal decisions. Establishing a conservatorship requires proving the person’s inability to manage their own well-being.

Advanced Estate Planning Strategies

For those with specific planning goals, our attorneys offer advanced strategies:

● Charitable trusts allow individuals to leave assets to charities while receiving tax benefits.
● Special needs trusts protect the financial future of loved ones with disabilities without impacting their eligibility for government benefits.
● Irrevocable life insurance trusts (ILITs) remove life insurance proceeds from an estate, reducing potential tax liabilities.

These strategies help individuals meet unique financial goals while providing security for beneficiaries.

Tax Planning And Gift Tax Exemptions

Estate taxes can significantly reduce an estate’s value. Strategies such as gifting assets within annual exemption limits or establishing trusts can help minimize tax burdens while preserving wealth for future generations. Careful planning can make a significant difference in how assets are preserved and transferred.

Estate Planning For Business Owners

Business owners should consider succession planning to protect their company’s future. Estate planning tools such as buy-sell agreements and trusts can help ensure a smooth transition while maintaining business continuity. Creating a structured plan helps business owners safeguard their legacy and avoid disruptions.

Estate Planning Frequently Asked Questions

With 30 years of experience, we understand how complex estate planning can be. Our clients come to us with many questions, and we work hard to find answers and solutions, as every situation is unique. To help you start the estate planning process, here are a few of the most common ones.

What are the benefits of having an estate plan?

Estate plans provide many benefits, depending on the specifics of your situation. For one thing, they reduce the odds of estate disputes because you can make your wishes clear in the document. They also give you the chance to use a power of attorney and pick an agent to act on your behalf – for medical, financial or legal reasons – if you are incapacitated. Beyond that, estate planning can sometimes reduce your tax burden and help the transfer go more smoothly.

Who needs an estate plan?

You do have to be 18 years old to make an estate plan. Beyond that, anyone can benefit from having a plan in place. Young adults may be interested in future medical care, for instance. Parents may want to set up a guardianship for their child, just in case. Older adults may want to make end-of-life decisions, use a power of attorney or just pass assets on to the next generation. Estate planning is not just for the wealthy and can be helpful for anyone, at any age.

What is a living trust?

A living trust is a document that you can use to provide asset distribution instructions, similar to a will. But there are some key benefits. For instance, if you’re incapacitated, the living trust controls your assets and not the court. Additionally, the trust keeps your assets out of probate after you pass away. Our experienced team can help you consider all of the options that you have and the potential benefits – either for you personally or for your loved one in the future. A comprehensive estate plan has benefits for everyone.

Consult With An Estate Planning Lawyer

Our estate planning team emphasizes an individual approach as well as attention to detail. To get your estate planning started, request a meeting with one or more of our lawyers. Call 559-248-4820 or send an inquiry.