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  Probate is the process of transferring assets from a decedent to an heir.  For those who die in California with assets over $150,000 and without a trust, or perhaps with an improperly funded trust, the only way to transfer title from a decedent to a beneficiary is through the probate process. The first step is to file a petition for probate in California Superior Court and have a personal representative appointed.  If the decedent…

  Irrevocable trusts can help to provide long-term asset management.  Although irrevocable trusts are not suitable for everyone, they can be an important estate planning tool for some. While irrevocable trusts are by title inflexible, some states, including California, allow for modifications to an irrevocable trust in some situations. Irrevocable trusts can be helpful for individuals with taxable estates, those who do not want additional personal income for tax reasons, and they also help to…

  Per California law, the time-period between filing for a divorce and finalizing it can be no less than six months and one day. Divorcing couples are often surprised to learn that due to a full and complex court system, divorces can take several months or years longer than expected to finalize. Setting realistic expectations about how long your divorce will take to process is important to putting yourself on the road to recovery and…

  If you’re reading this, chances are, either you or someone you know, has been a victim of domestic violence. Defined by the United States Department of Justice’s Office on Violence Against Women, the definition of domestic violence is “a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain control over another intimate partner.” The Surgeon General has deemed domestic violence as the number one health concern in…

  If you have an adolescent, chances are, they belong to one of the numerous social media platforms. While today’s technology allows us to instantly share our thoughts, experiences, feelings, moods, and activities, not all sharing is healthy or appropriate. In fact, certain activity on social media can be punishable by law and be considered harassment. Parents: Have a Frank and Honest Discussion with your Kids about the Ramifications of their Actions on Social Media…