Modern Estate Planning Blog

Contrary to popular belief, a person’s debt is not automatically canceled out upon their passing. As you will soon find out, all outstanding bills will eventually need to be paid out of the decedent’s estate.

"I just created a revocable trust and was trying to change the ownership on my investment account and the company said they don’t let trusts own the accounts. What now?"

In continuing our series on the important steps to take after the death of a loved one, one of first things you must take care of is making sure your loved one’s home is safe from the threat of theft or vandalism.

A common misconception is that Social Security will automatically be notified once a person passes away. There is also a misconception that any benefits falsely issued after death can be collected by family members until the funds are officially shut off.

"When my husband and I bought our house recently our real estate agent asked us how we wanted to hold title – as joint tenants or community property. What is the difference and what is the best way for a married couple to take title?"

As a Gold River Probate Attorney, I know that handling the legal end of a loved one’s death can seem nearly impossible, especially when you are grieving.

As a Sacramento special needs attorney, I wanted to highlight that April is Autism Awareness Month, which seeks to educate the public about the needs and challenges facing those with autism spectrum disorders.

I’ve heard the term power of attorney, but I’m not sure what that is. Are there different types?

Unfortunately, life doesn’t stop moving once a loved one passes away and there are certain steps you must take almost immediately after the funeral.

As a Sacramento estates lawyer, I know that far too many area parents set themselves up for a devastating situation by not having the right emergency plans in place should the unthinkable occur.

As a Sacramento elder lawyer, I know how common it is for each generation to avoid planning for their deaths and long-term care needs.

It’s bad enough that you have to think about death when planning your estate, but what’s worse are all of these hardly-pronounceable words of which you have no idea what they mean. Beneficiary? Fiduciary? Revocable Living Trusts?

"To avoid probate, I’m thinking of adding my married son on the deed to my house as a joint tenant with right of survivorship. When I die does my house become community property with his wife or does he inherit it alone? In case of divorce would his wife have any claim on the house?"

Before you start cleaning out the closet, garage, home office or anything else that tends to get overly cluttered/ messy through the year, may I suggest you officially start by tidying up your Gold River estate plan?

It is important to take into consideration both your life situation and relationships now, as well as the possibility that they might change in the future.

As a Gold River estate planning attorney, and mother myself, I can honestly say that that estate planning is critical for all parents of minor children.

Is a living trust the best option for you and your family? Can you get by using only a simple will? What about a medical power of attorney or living will?

Unfortunately, tragic accidents or other life-altering events can change things. So can the input and influence from other family members. In order for your wishes to be preserved, the best thing to do is to put them in writing.

Estate planning can be a daunting task, especially when the last thing you want to think about is your death and your family’s grief. How do you start your estate plan? What all should a good estate plan include?

When it comes to protecting your rights as a member of the aging GLBT community, you should consider consulting a Sacramento estate planning lawyer who can help you make the right choices.