When considering estate planning in California, many homeowners assume that using a joint tenancy with right of survivorship automatically protects their property and simplifies inheritance. While joint tenancy can bypass probate and allow property to pass directly to a surviving… READ MORE
In today’s digital-first world your financial and personal life can be integrated across devices, apps, and online platforms. Yet most traditional estate plans still focus on physical property and bank accounts — leaving heirs struggling to access critical accounts, photos,… READ MORE
If you’re a California resident getting ready to plan for how your assets will be distributed after death, you need to understand the difference between two important estate planning tools: the small estate affidavit process (under California Probate Code §… READ MORE
Owning property outside California can significantly increase the complexity of your estate plan. For residents of California, integrating an out-of-state home into your estate strategy triggers two important considerations: the risk of needing an ancillary probate, and ensuring proper deed,… READ MORE
Since Prop 19 California went into effect in 2021, it has transformed how parent to child transfer of real property is taxed. For families in San Diego and throughout the state, understanding how property tax reassessment works under Prop 19 is… READ MORE
For California homeowners looking to avoid probate and simplify estate transfers, two popular tools often come up: the revocable transfer on death deed (TOD deed) and the living trust. Both can help your heirs receive your property more efficiently but… READ MORE
When it comes to estate planning many Californians feel overwhelmed by legal terms and confusing paperwork. Having a living trust explained in simple terms can help you understand it better—and ultimately save your family time, money, and stress A revocable… READ MORE
A Grantor Retained Annuity Trust (GRAT) is a powerful estate planning tool that allows individuals in California to transfer assets to their heirs while minimizing estate and gift taxes. A properly structured GRAT can reduce your taxes by locking in… READ MORE
Understanding legal documents can be complicated especially when you’re making important decisions about your estate. But what if there’s a language barrier? In Southern California — especially in San Diego — estate planning should be accessible to everyone, no matter… READ MORE
Knowing how to amend an estate plan in California is essential for keeping your living trust up to date and aligned with your current wishes. Depending on the type of trust you have — revocable or irrevocable — the amendment… READ MORE