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"If my beneficiary is struggling with drug addiction or mental health issues when I die, does my Successor Trustee still have to give them their distribution?" Our clients want to add an extra provision ensuring that at the time of their death, the Trustee can manage the distribution regardless of the beneficiary's age. To many clients' surprise, there is no need for the extra provision, as our Trust already provides this power! According to the Special Distributions clause

One of our clients asked us during their signing appointment: "Why is there a Will in my packet if I am already signing a Trust?" And on top of that "What's the difference between a Trust and a Will anyway?" Our trust packet includes a pour-over Will that gifts your assets to your Trust. The difference between the Will and the Trust is that the Trust specifically assigns your large assets and personal property into your trust name, making for a seamless transfer to your

Sometimes, co-owners decide that joint tenancy no longer suit their circumstances and choose to change their ownership structure to tenants in common. This process is often referred to as severing a joint tenancy. There are several reasons why property owners may consider changing their ownership structure, one of which and the most common reason is Estate Planning. If you are considering severing a joint tenancy, it is important to understand the legal and financial conseque

Since Prop 19 came into effect, many clients used to think that submitting only the claim for reassessment exclusion between parent-to-child form (BOE 19-P) was enough to qualify for the parent-child exemption from property tax reassessment. Now, submitting the Homeowner's Exemption BOE-266 form along with BOE19-P is just as important. Submitting these forms to the assessor within one year of your home's transfer or within one year of the parent's death is instrumental in g

Choosing a successor trustee is an important part of estate planning. Learn how to choose someone you trust to manage your assets, follow your wishes, and protect your beneficiaries.

Creating a trust is an important step, but effective estate planning doesn't end when you sign your documents. Learn why discussing your plan with trusted family members, trustees, and agents can help ensure your wishes are carried out smoothly.

Blended families require more than a standard estate plan. Learn why a simple trust may not be enough and how thoughtful trust structures can help protect both sides of the family.