Married couples can use the estate tax exemption amount of both spouses, so long as the surviving spouse timely files Form 706 with the IRS.

A brief review of California estate planning….

You don’t need to prepare anything to meet with me. I will ask you questions and we will talk through everything at the initial consultation.

How do you find an estate planning attorney? Referrals from friends and family, trusted professionals, and Yelp reviews give a good start; but whether or not to hire someone comes down to (basically) whether you like them or not.

Why do married couples need estate plans? To make sure that they make life easier for their spouse in times of incapacity and at the time of death.

There are some relevant tax updates for 2023 that anyone involved in estate planning and estate administration (probate/trust administration) should be aware of.

When do you need to update your estate plan? It depends. Most people update it when there are changes to people involved; but there may be other reasons to update it as well.

How long does it take to set up a trust? It depends!

How much are probate fees in California?

What is an estate planning lawyer? Someone who helps guide you through the complex decisions involving your kids, your family, your loved ones, and your belongings.

Estate planning involves making decisions about what happens to you, your things, and your kids while you are able to do so.

Once you have a trust, you must make sure to put your assets into the trust. And, don’t forget that you should still review the trust every three to five years!

Does California have a death with dignity or physician assisted suicide law? Yes.

There are rules in California and in federal law regarding scattering ashes. Here’s a brief summary of what you should keep in mind when scattering or when giving instructions to your loved ones.

What should happen with your body when you die? Although previously this included only burial or cremation, there are now additional options to consider.

Can you create an estate plan for your pet? Yes! It’s called a pet trust.

It’s critical that blended families create an estate plan that will ensure both spouses and all children are cared for in a way that both spouses envision.

When someone dies, there are certainly legal processes that need to happen; but the most important thing is to grieve and take care of yourself before you call your attorney.

Why do you need a trust in California?

Which state law does your estate plan use?