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 […]
Read more 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 […]
Read more 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 […]
Read more 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. […]
Read more 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 […]
Read more 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 […]
Read more Should You Put Your House in a Trust in California?
Have you ever looked around your home and realized it’s more than four walls—it’s a place tied to many personal memories and milestones? Owning property in California can be a source of financial security, yet folks often wonder about its future. Our team at Desert Law Group has worked with clients here in the Coachella […]
Read more Living Will vs. Last Will in California: What’s the Difference and Do You Need Both?
What happens if you’re too sick to express medical wishes or pass away without instructions for your assets? Estate planning involves more than a single document. Since 2001, Desert Law Group—founded by attorney Kimberly T. Lee—has helped Coachella Valley residents and residents of California create plans that reflect their priorities. In this post, we explain […]
Read more Do Lawyers Keep Original Copies of Wills in California?
Wills play a central role in ensuring your assets pass to the right people. Having a well-drafted document spares loved ones from future confusion and delays. Desert Law Group was started in 2001 by attorney Kimberly T. Lee, and since then, we have devoted ourselves to Coachella Valley estate planning. Today, we want to discuss […]
Read more The Role of Portability in Estate Tax Planning
When it comes to estate planning, one tool that often flies under the radar is portability—a valuable option that allows married couples to transfer unused estate tax exemption amounts from one spouse to the other. This can be a powerful way to reduce or eliminate estate taxes, but it’s not automatic, and it has limitations […]
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