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Planning for the Disposition of Your Remains
Every October, we’re surrounded by reminders of our own mortality – skeletons on porches, haunted house tours, and ghost stories galore. It’s a good-natured bit of seasonal fun. But for families who’ve lost a loved one, there’s nothing spooky about the confusion and conflict that can arise when no one knows what that person wanted […]
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Secure Act 2.0: What’s Working and What’s Not
When Congress passed the SECURE 2.0 Act at the end of 2022, it promised to modernize retirement savings and make life a little easier for both savers and those inheriting retirement accounts. Now that we’ve had all of 2024 and most of 2025 living with the changes, we can see which parts have delivered and […]
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Starting Difficult Conversations About Money with Your Parents
Few conversations are more uncomfortable than asking your parents about money. Yet, avoiding it can leave families unprepared for medical emergencies, long-term care costs, or even disputes after a parent passes away. From a legal standpoint, talking openly now can save your family from confusion later. Money decisions made today can affect not only your […]
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The Rise of Professional Fiduciaries – Why Families Sometimes Need Outside Help
When most people think about who will manage their estate or step in if they can’t make decisions, the answer feels obvious: a spouse, an adult child, or a trusted relative. But what happens when family isn’t the best option? That’s where professional fiduciaries come in. What is a fiduciary? A fiduciary is someone who […]
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Understanding the Tax Impact of Non-Citizen Spouses in Estate Planning
What You Need to Know When Your Spouse Isn’t a U.S. Citizen When it comes to estate planning, one of the most important goals is making sure your loved ones are taken care of after you’re gone. But if your spouse isn’t a U.S. citizen, some of the rules are different, and if you’re not […]
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Is It Time for an Asset Protection Trust?
Most people don’t think about protecting their assets until something bad happens, like a lawsuit, nursing home bill, or financial crisis. But by then, it might be too late. Truly, the best time to protect your assets is before you’re at risk. That’s where an asset protection trust can come in. These powerful legal tools […]
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Is Your Will Valid? How to Make Your Will Legal in California
Having a valid will in California can bring a sense of control and comfort, knowing your belongings will pass to the right hands. At Desert Law Group, we have served the Coachella Valley and beyond since 2001, advising individuals and families about estate matters. We want to share vital details on how to draft a […]
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The Myth of the “Simple Will” in a Complex World
Many people come into our office saying they “just need a simple will.” It’s a phrase we hear all the time—and we understand the intention. You want something straightforward, and easy to understand. Something that ensures your belongings go to the right people when you pass. But in today’s world, “simple” doesn’t always mean sufficient. […]
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The “Big Beautiful Bill”: What It Could Mean for Your Long-Term Care Planning
There’s a new federal law on the books—known unofficially as the “Big Beautiful Bill”—that could significantly reshape the future of Medicaid, particularly for individuals and families who may someday rely on it to cover long-term care expenses. Several provisions in the bill deserve attention, especially if you or a loved one may need skilled nursing […]
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Do You Need a Lawyer to Revoke a Power of Attorney in California?
Have you ever felt uneasy about the person handling your financial or healthcare decisions? At Desert Law Group, we understand that circumstances can shift in unexpected ways. Founded in 2001 by attorney Kimberly T. Lee, our firm has served many clients in estate planning and wealth preservation. Today, we’ll look at whether you must hire […]
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