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New California Law Makes It Easier to Avoid Probate — But There’s Still a Better Way
A new law that took effect on April 1 (Ab 2016) could make it easier to bypass the long and expensive probate process. But while this is a welcome update, there are still much smarter ways to plan your estate such as using a living trust.
4 min read
44 views


Should I Add My Trust to My Homeowner's Insurance Policy?
In the aftermath of the Pacific Palisades fires, we received many inquiries from concerned clients regarding coverage for trust property.
2 min read
110 views


2025 Estate and Gift Tax Report
Pleasanton estate planning attorney explains estate and gift tax rules and considerations for 2025. Keeping step with recent years since...
7 min read
63 views


2023 Estate and Gift Tax Report
As described in this article, 2023 marks the highest estate and gift tax exemptions to date.
5 min read
143 views


Eliminating Capital Gain on Real Estate Owned By California Couples
If you hold real estate in Joint Tenancy with a spouse, and the survivor of you sells a property after a death, you'll be over taxed.
3 min read
1,005 views


How Do I Choose My Successor Trustee?
One of the tasks in creating a trust is designating a successor trustee to carry out your wishes when you can no longer act.
3 min read
198 views


How Can Life Insurance Be Used In Estate Planning?
Life insurance is a great tool for estate planning. However, there are nuances that sometimes get overlooked which, if left unchecked,...
5 min read
67 views


Trusts and the Above 200k Income Problem
Tips on avoiding proposed taxes on income over $200,000 for trusts that that are taxed separately from the trust's grantor/creator.
2 min read
166 views


Who Should Have a Copy of My Trust?
Here are four simple and practical tips to lay a proper foundation for future accessibility and use of your living trust based estate plan.
4 min read
965 views


Can a Living Trust be Electronically Signed and Remotely Notarized?
The COVID 19 pandemic has created a perfect storm. On one hand, the demand for trust and estate planning has surged. It seems as though...
7 min read
3,175 views


Choosing Successor Trustees
Choosing successor Trustees is one of the key decisions made when establishing a Living Trust. Consider these factors to choose wisely.
5 min read
40 views


Living Trusts and Refinancing
Pleasanton California Living Trust attorney explains what to expect when refinancing trust owned property.
4 min read
376 views


The Shift to Virtual Estate Planning
A successful virtual estate planning experience starts with a shift in mindset that in-person service is somehow superior (it isn't).
8 min read
207 views


How Much Does a Living Trust Cost?
A clear and transparent discussion of living trust cost in California, and the options available to create one.
6 min read
1,072 views


Signing Estate Planning Documents During COVID-19
There are several ways to execute estate planning documents when notarization is not an option due to COVID-19.
5 min read
313 views


Thinking About Estate Planning Lately? You're Not Alone
Estate planning is top of mind lately. This post explains what the fuss is about and how to get your estate planning crossed off your list.
4 min read
56 views


Estate Planning After the Secure Act
The Secure Act significantly alters the way retirement accounts can be used for estate planning. Several steps should be considered or taken
7 min read
266 views


Discussing Estate Planning Over Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving offers a unique opportunity to discuss estate planning with family. Here are some tips for starting a successful conversation.
3 min read
18 views


Living Will vs Living Trust
A Living Will only covers one phase of life (Health Care), whereas a Living Trust covers three distinct phases in relation to your assets.
2 min read
32 views


No-Contest Clauses in California
We may enjoy watching courtroom drama in movies, TV and on stage, but when it comes to our own lives, most people will do just about...
3 min read
506 views
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