Do you love your pet? Do you consider your pet to be part of your family? Are you concerned about what will happen to Fluffy or Fido if anything happens to you? If your answer to any of these questions is "yes", please read this blog and learn more about how you can create a pet trust to insure that the people you want will care for your pet when you can no longer do so. What is a pet trust? It is a legally [...]
Palm Springs is home to a vibrant community of art collectors, antique lovers, and classic car enthusiasts. Whether you've spent years curating a fine art collection, investing in rare mid-century furniture, or restoring vintage automobiles, your passion has tangible value. But what happens to these prized possessions when you're no longer here? Without a proper estate plan, your collection could be sold off, improperly handled, or even lost in probate. Why Estate Planning Matters for Collectors Unlike typical financial assets, art, antiques, and vintage cars [...]
Are you a business owner in Palm Springs? Have you considered what happens to your business if something unexpected occurs? If not, you need to give estate planning serious thought, not only to protect your business, but to safeguard your employees, clients, and loved ones. Each state provides a default plan for business succession if you fail to plan. This one-size-fits-all approach can spell disaster for your business and those who depend on it. Without a comprehensive estate plan, your business could face significant challenges [...]
Are you a retiree who has recently moved to Palm Springs? Have you considered how your relocation impacts your estate plan? If not, you need to give this serious thought, not only to protect your assets but to safeguard your loved ones and ensure your wishes are honored. Each state provides its own default estate planning rules. For retirees moving to California, these default rules can spell disaster if you fail to update your existing estate plan. Without a comprehensive review and potential modifications, you [...]
Are you concerned about potential scams when planning your estate? Have you received unsolicited calls or mailings about estate planning services? Are you worried about choosing the right professional to help protect your assets and loved ones? If so, you need to understand the common estate planning scams that could put your future at risk. The Trust Mill Trap Many of my clients have encountered what we call "trust mills" - companies that aggressively market low-cost, standardized estate planning packages. These operations often pressure people [...]
Are you putting off estate planning because you think it's only for the wealthy or elderly? Have you been telling yourself that your family will figure everything out, or that a simple will is sufficient? If so, you need to understand some important facts about estate planning that could protect you and your loved ones from future complications. Estate Planning Is Not Just for the Wealthy Many people believe they don't need an estate plan because they aren't "rich enough." The reality is that estate [...]
As an estate planning attorney specializing in LGBTQ+ family legal needs, I've seen firsthand the critical importance of comprehensive estate planning for same-sex couples and non-married partners. Many couples mistakenly believe that legal marriage or long-term commitment automatically protects their interests in California. The reality is far more complex. Each state provides a default estate plan that may not reflect your unique relationship and your wishes. Without a carefully crafted estate plan, your partner could face significant legal challenges: -Medical Decision-Making Barriers – Without specific [...]
If you own a vacation home in Palm Springs, you know it's more than just a property—it's where you and your family are able to come together, make memories, and escape from everyday life. But without proper planning, this special place could become a headache for your loved ones down the road. Let me explain why putting your vacation home in a trust makes good sense. 1. Keep Things Simple By Avoiding Probate When a property isn't in a trust, it has to go through [...]
Creating a Living Trust is one of the most effective ways to ensure your assets are managed according to your wishes and ensure you avoid probate after you pass. If you own a home in California, transferring it into a Living Trust is a smart step to protect your property and streamline the distribution process for your heirs. What Is a Living Trust? A Living Trust is a legal document that places your assets, including real estate, under the control of a trust while you [...]
Creating an estate plan is crucial for everyone, but LGBTQ+ individuals and families often face unique considerations that require special attention. Let me share a story about former clients of mine we will call Alexis and Sarah that illustrates why thoughtful estate planning is so essential for our LGBTQ+ community members in California.