A power of attorney is a legal document that allows you to choose an agent to handle your financial or legal matters on your behalf. It is designed to provide structure and control over how decision-making authority is transferred. The scope and function of a power of...
Year: 2026
Don’t forget record access when drafting advance directives
Advance health care directives provide instructions about medical priorities and can authorize a trustworthy person to make medical decisions on behalf of someone who is too ill or injured to advocate for themselves. Living wills, physician orders and powers of...
How Californians can limit the risk of conservatorship
Conservatorship in California is similar to adult guardianship in other states. When individuals become incapacitated and incapable of managing their own affairs, other adults can request authority from the courts to support that individual. Most people do not want to...
Is an out-of-state advance directive effective in California?
An advance health care directive, also known as a living will in some locations, is a very valuable estate planning document. It helps protect individuals from scenarios in which they might receive medical care that contradicts their personal wishes if they’re...
What happens when you don’t have a will?
Thinking about the future is not always easy. Many people put off creating a will because life feels too busy or because they assume there is still plenty of time. But when someone passes away without a will in place, the decisions about their estate do not pause....
Going to court when an outside party has influenced a will
Lawsuits sometimes occur due to issues regarding a person’s estate. Families sometimes pursue probate litigation because a personal representative or trustee does something unethical. Other times, concerns about the estate plan could lead to a lawsuit. Interested...
5 crucial facts to know when doing your estate planning
Estate planning is an important step in protecting your family, your assets and your personal wishes. Many people delay this process because it feels overwhelming or because they believe it only applies to those with significant wealth. In reality, estate planning is...
Irrevocable trusts provide benefits for your beneficiaries
One of the main goals of an estate plan is to ensure that your loved ones receive the assets you intend them to have. While there are multiple ways to make this happen, one is the irrevocable trust. This type of trust can’t be changed once it’s established and...
Why updating your estate plan is as important as creating one
Creating your estate plan can give you a sense of relief knowing that your affairs are in order when you die or if you become incapacitated. Once the will is signed, powers of attorney are in place and any trusts are funded, it’s tempting to believe that the job is...

