When I die, how much are my people going to have to pay in taxes or other costs? Check out our summary of all the taxes involved when someone dies in California.

What happens if you die without putting your assets in the name of your trust? TLDR: usually probate court.

TLDR: an estate plan that includes a trust, will, financial power of attorney, healthcare power of attorney — and know what assets you have and who you want to receive them.

If you die with only a will or no will in California, your estate goes through probate court to distribute assets.

Estate planning in California should avoid probate, ensure your stuff goes where you want it to when you die, and plan for incapacity.

What are the deadlines when someone dies? Here’s a summary.

Whether someone dies with just a will or without a will at all, their estate goes to probate court. Here’s what you can expect that to look like…

Should the guardian for your minor child be the same as the financial agent? Maybe. Maybe not. Here are some things to consider when thinking about a guardian.

California has a death with dignity / medical aid in dying law. It’s called the End of Life Option Act. Here’s what you need to know.

Why can’t I just use an online provider instead of hiring an attorney? TDLR: cost, errors, thought process, team.

Do I need to update my trust if I buy a new house or open a new bank account? TLDR: no. There are other reasons to update your documents!

Who needs a trust in California? Generally, if you have more than $184,500 in assets, or you have a minor child, or you own real property, you probably should have a trust.

Once you have a trust, your work isn’t done! Be sure that your assets are in the name of the trust — and that your trust is listed as an insured in your homeowners insurance.

The federal estate and gift exemption and exclusions have increased in 2025.

The fires in Los Angeles are devastating - emotionally and physically. There are certain things we recommend doing if you have been impacted and, frankly, even if you haven’t.

Follow Jane’s case study and how her family had to cope with probate because her mom passed away without a comprehensive estate plan in California

Why do I need an estate plan in California? TLDR: To avoid protect assets from probate, assist your family, and prevent disputes.

This is a list of resources for someone who is grieving, experiencing anticipatory grief, or is dying themselves.

It’s easy to think about the cost of probate in terms of executor/attorney fees in California but there are other costs that the executor or administrator may need to pay up front and get reimbursed later by the estate.

When someone hits 18, they’re legally an adult and they need the documents to go along with becoming an adult — including an estate plan.