Law Blog

Estate Planning Blog From a Southern California Perspective
Who Is Entitled To A Copy Of A Living Trust?

Who Is Entitled To A Copy Of A Living Trust?

If you are the beneficiary named in a California trust, you have the right to see a copy of the trust. If your rights have vested, you can request a copy of the trust directly from the trustee.
Dec 16
What is a Testamentary Trust and Does It Go Through Probate?

What is a Testamentary Trust and Does It Go Through Probate?

A testamentary trust is a provision in the will that both names the executor of the estate and instructs that individual to create the trust. After the person's death, the will must go through the probate process to determine its authenticity.
Can A Trust Protect Your Separate Property?

Can A Trust Protect Your Separate Property?

Trusts established before marriage are considered separate property. Using a trust is one way to manage assets, protect a small business, manage monetary gifts and protect money from creditors.
When Do You Need A Probate Litigation Attorney?

When Do You Need A Probate Litigation Attorney?

Lawsuits that occur because of estate distribution issues and other conflicts are usually complex. When faced with this challenge, you should protect your interests by hiring an experienced litigation lawyer who will aggressively work on your behalf.
What Is A Conservatorship And How Does It Work?

What Is A Conservatorship And How Does It Work?

A conservatorship is a form of legal guardianship of an adult. The conservator may be a family member, a close friend or a court appointed professional. It is important to understand that a conservatorship focuses on the needs of the individual.
What Is A Power Of Appointment?

What Is A Power Of Appointment?

The power of appointment can be as broad or limited as you desire depending on whether you choose to give general power of appointment or special powers of appointment. It can also be exercised or postponed until a specified event occurs.
What Is A Family Limited Partnership And How Does It Work?

What Is A Family Limited Partnership And How Does It Work?

A family limited partnership is a holding company owned by family members, created to hold business interests, real estate, or other assets. Purpose of creating a family limited partnership is to achieve creditor protection and reduce taxes.
Why Is Estate Planning So Crucial For Veterans?

Why Is Estate Planning So Crucial For Veterans?

Estate planning is very important for everyone, but it is especially important for veterans and their families. Military families need to consider special estate-planning issues that others do not.
How Do You Resolve Inheritance Conflicts?

How Do You Resolve Inheritance Conflicts?

Most families can work through disputes with the right help and no legal battle, but sometimes beneficiaries will engage in self-serving or unethical behavior. Inheritance disputes can be very stressful; First Class Counsel is here to serve you.
Estate Planning When Married To A Noncitizen

Estate Planning When Married To A Noncitizen

It doesn't matter whether or not you or your spouse are citizens, it is essential that you place your assets in a Living Trust in order to protect those assets in the United States. You can leave property to someone who is not a U.S. citizen.
Why  You Should Not Delay Establishing Your Estate Plan

Why You Should Not Delay Establishing Your Estate Plan

A well designed Estate Plan will save money and time in the long run. Without an estate plan, your heirs will be left to endure the lengthy, time consuming, stressful probate process, which entails costly court and attorney fees.
What Is A Living Trust And Why Do You Need One Now?

What Is A Living Trust And Why Do You Need One Now?

There are many reasons why it is a good idea to arrange how your assets should be handled upon death. A Living Trust will ensure your beneficiaries and surviving spouse are protected during a tough and emotional time.
Revocable vs. Irrevocable Trusts

Revocable vs. Irrevocable Trusts

Trusts can be Revocable or Irrevocable. The difference between the two is all in the name, one can be terminated or changed, the other cannot. Depending on your main goals, one or even both may be good options for you.