» Trusts Estates and Probate

House, calculator, pen and spreadsheet on a desk. Visual concept for legal blog discussing the significant changes to estate tax exemption which may come in 2026.

Planning for Future Estate Law Changes

There are some significant changes that could be coming in 2026 regarding the estate tax exemption law. Unless Congress takes action, the record-high estate, gift, and generation skipping transfer tax exemption amounts will be cut in half on January… Read More
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Jute bag of money with a piggy bank. Visual concept for a legal blog discussing how to fund a trust to protect your assets and avoid probate.

How is a Trust Funded?

A trust can have many benefits for you and your beneficiaries, including avoiding the probate process and protecting your assets. However, it’s essential to understand that in order for a trust to be effective, it must be funded. This means transfe… Read More
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A tiny wooden house is placed near blocks of wood with letters spelling TAX. Visual concept for legal blog discussing estate tax exemption.

Understanding the Sunset of the Estate Tax Exemptions Under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act

Significant changes were made to the federal estate and gift tax system in 2017 with the enactment of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA). One of the most substantial changes concerned the increase of the lifetime exemption amount from $5.6 million to $… Read More
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Shot of a man and woman using a laptop while working on a project together in a workshop concept for: estate planning for small business owners.

Estate Planning for California Small Business Owners

Estate planning is important for everyone — but it’s even more critical for small business owners. If you own a small business, estate planning is essential to ensure the legacy you worked so hard to build is preserved for future generations. Whi… Read More
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Medical Advance Healthcare directive form and book with glasses.

What Do You Do with an Advance Healthcare Directive?

Many people avoid thinking about planning for incapacity. However, the unexpected can happen at any time — and it’s important to be prepared. No matter what age you are, and regardless of your health condition, it’s crucial to have an advance h… Read More
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Hand written probate text, Concept for questions about probate process.

Common Questions About the Probate Process

If your loved one recently passed, you may be experiencing a tremendous amount of grief and be emotionally overwhelmed. However, you might also have certain responsibilities during this difficult time and be required to deal with the property and ass… Read More
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Close-up on business people closing a deal with a handshake at the office. Concept for How to Select the Right California Probate Lawyer.

How to Select the Right California Probate Lawyer

Finding the right California probate lawyer for your case can sometimes be a challenge. With hundreds of lawyers to pick from, you might not know where to begin your search. The right fit can depend upon a number of factors — and it’s vital to kn… Read More
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Calculator with wooden house and coins stack and pen on wood table. Property investment and house mortgage. Concept for How to Transfer Property into a Trust.

How to Transfer Property into a Trust

A trust is a strategic estate planning tool that can help to ensure your wishes are upheld after your passing. They can also be used to minimize tax consequences and preserve assets for future generations. However, a trust must be properly created an… Read More
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Serious probate and estate administration attorney listening to millennial couple during office meeting, concept for Questions You Should Ask a Probate and Estate Administration Attorney

Questions You Should Ask a Probate and Estate Administration Attorney

Probate can be stressful and emotionally overwhelming. It’s important to have the guidance of an experienced attorney who can help you navigate the nuances of the laws surrounding probate and estate administration. However, you might be wondering w… Read More
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Probate Application and Estate Assets Concept for Questions You Should Ask Before Hiring a Probate Litigation Attorney

5 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Probate Litigation Attorney

Probate litigation can arise due to any number of issues that can occur during the probate process. These matters are often complex, emotional, and time-consuming — and it’s crucial to have a skillful probate litigation attorney by your side in t… Read More
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