palm springs estate planning attorney - The Law Offices of Eric A. Rudolph P.C.

Protecting Your LGBTQ+ Partner Through Strategic Estate Planning

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 legal documentation, [...]

February 10th, 2025|Estate Planning, LGBTQ Estate Planning|

Protecting Your Legacy: A Guide to LGBTQ+ Estate Planning in California

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.

December 18th, 2024|Estate Planning, LGBTQ Estate Planning|

Jane’s Estate Plan

I recently had a client we will call Jane Doe. Jane came to me concerned about creating her estate plan to protect the important people in her life. Jane has a daughter, Mary, and a son, Michael. Jane's first husband (Mary & Michael's father) died 20 years ago. Jane is now living with a male companion, Joseph; they are not married. Jane and Joseph have been living together for about 5 years and are enjoying their retirement together in Southern California. Jane's daughter Mary lives [...]

October 16th, 2024|Client Stories, Estate Planning|

Successor Trustees

One of the biggest decisions you will make when creating your living trust is choosing your successor trustee. I always tell my clients it is important to select a successor trustee they count on, as that person will ultimately be responsible for protecting and distributing your assets to your loved ones.

December 30th, 2023|Estate Administration, Estate Planning|

Determining the Best Estate Plan for You

Many people I have worked with over the years come to me not really knowing what an estate plan includes. Most have heard the terms “living trust” and “last will”, but are not sure what they need, or how a trust or a will can help them. We can help you determine what the best estate plan is for you.

November 27th, 2023|Estate Administration, Estate Planning|

Specific Estate Planning Needs of the LGBTQ+ Community

Proper estate planning by an attorney who is a member of the LGBTQ+ community ensures you are working with someone who understands your unique needs. Ensuring your assets will go to who you want, your estate is managed by the person of your choice, and in the event you are incapacitated, your medical decision and financial matters are handled by the person you want, is essential to protecting yourself as a member of the LGBTQ+ community.

November 16th, 2023|LGBTQ Estate Planning|

Meet Your Attorney – Eric A. Rudolph

Estate planning is personal. When selecting your estate planning attorney, it is important to work with someone who understands your unique needs, including where you come from, where you're going, and the people who matter most to you; all essential elements to creating an estate plan that works for you.

November 1st, 2023|Estate Planning, LGBTQ Estate Planning|