How Can I Talk to My Family About Inheritance Without Starting Drama?
A San Diego Estate Lawyer Explains How to Keep the Peace
We've all seen the movies—someone passes away, and the family gathers for the dramatic will reading, only to spiral into chaos when expectations don't match reality. But in real life, it doesn't have to be that way.
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How to Make Sure Your Medical Wishes Are Honored—Even If Your Family Disagrees: Guidance on Creating an Advance Directive in San Diego
It's one of the most difficult truths we deal with in this work: We sit with clients—sometimes very elderly, sometimes very ill—who tell us they are at peace. They've fought hard. They've made their decisions. And when the time comes, they're ready to let go.
But here's the heartbreaking...
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Can I Write My Own Will in San Diego, California?
As an experienced San Diego will and trust lawyer, I'm often asked whether residents can legally write their own wills without an attorney. The short answer is yes—California law does allow individuals to create their own wills. However, the more important question isn't whether you can, but whether you should.
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Timing Matters: Estate Planning Lessons from Gene Hackman’s Case
Recent news about Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy's passing has highlighted a crucial but often overlooked aspect of estate planning—the timing of death between spouses, especially in blended families. As a San Diego estate planning lawyer, I've seen how this timing can significantly impact inheritance outcomes and potentially create complications for...
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Creating a Legacy Letter: A San Diego Estate Planning Attorney’s Guide to Preserving Your Values Beyond Assets
San Diego estate planning attorneys often help clients create comprehensive plans that address legal and financial matters. However, one of the most meaningful components of estate planning isn't about assets at all—it's about preserving your values, wisdom, and personal history through what's known as a legacy letter.
What Is...
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How the SECURE Act 2.0 Affects Your Retirement Account & Beneficiaries
The SECURE Act 2.0, signed into law in 2022, introduced major changes to retirement accounts, impacting everything from Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) to beneficiary inheritance rules. These updates are crucial for individuals planning their estates, as they affect how retirement assets are distributed and taxed after death.
As a...
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8 Critical Things People Forget to Include in Their Will
As a San Diego estate planning attorney, I've seen firsthand how even carefully drafted wills and trusts can have significant oversights. While most people remember to address major assets like homes and financial accounts, certain important provisions are frequently overlooked. These forgotten elements can create unnecessary stress, conflict, and expenses for your...
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Your Healthcare, Your Decision: A San Diego Estate Planning Attorney Explains Why Planning Ahead Pays Off
We often picture healthcare decisions as something that only comes up in a hospital setting, but the truth is, these choices deserve your attention long before a crisis arises. As a San Diego estate planning attorney, I've seen how advance planning can make a world of difference for both individuals and their...
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When Life’s Storms Strike: A Guide to Protecting Your Estate and Insurance Coverage
As a San Diego trust lawyer, I've seen how storms in life can come in all shapes and sizes—health crises, divorce, or the loss of a loved one. And of course, there are the literal storms: hurricanes, floods, and fires that can damage property and uproot lives. In recent months, you may...
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Myths About Wills and Probate: A San Diego Estate Lawyer Explains What You Need to Know
As a San Diego estate lawyer, one of the most common misconceptions I hear from clients is that having a will means their loved ones can avoid probate. Unfortunately, this isn't the case. Let's dive into why wills and probate go hand in hand, and what this means for your estate planning.
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