Welcome to the Desert Law Group blog! Here you will find estate planning information and insights, helpful tips to preserve your wealth and protect your assets, and copies of our latest newsletters, Lawyer for Life, Elder Law Update, and Smart Aging Update.
Browse recent posts to gain general information, use the menu at the left to search by topic, or join the Desert Law Group community by subscribing to have new posts emailed directly to your inbox. Topics include: estate planning, probate and trusts, healthcare planning, special needs planning, charitable giving, and more. Check back regularly for updates!
If you would like to receive more information about anything you’ve read on our blog or have questions that you can’t find the answer to, contact our office at 760-776-9977 to speak with an estate planning attorney.
Losing a loved one is tough enough, but disputes over their will can make things even more stressful. In California, you can challenge a will by filing a petition in probate court within 120 days of the will being admitted to probate, or by objecting at the initial probate hearing if it hasn’t been admitted […]
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Unlike a revocable trust, which you have the flexibility to change during your lifetime, an irrevocable trust is permanent once established. While this may seem daunting, its benefits, like asset protection and tax savings, often outweigh the drawbacks. In California, setting up an irrevocable trust involves a few steps: choosing a trustee, naming beneficiaries, drafting […]
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Choosing who will manage a trust is an important decision, and appointing co-trustees can make the process smoother than simply choosing one trustee. By sharing duties, co-trustees provide greater accountability and stability in managing the trust, ensuring your wishes are honored. This approach offers valuable benefits for those planning their estate in California. For over […]
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A charitable trust is a smart way to support the causes you care about while enjoying tax benefits. It allows you to contribute assets to charity, fulfill your philanthropic goals, and even provide income for your family. Setting one up in California requires different steps, such as choosing the right trust type, preparing the trust […]
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When it comes to estate planning, many believe creating a living trust automatically includes all assets. However, unless you actually transfer the title of the property into your trust, those assets may still go through probate. In California, property not titled in your trust can be subject to probate, delaying distributions, increasing costs, and exposing […]
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When it comes to estate planning, beneficiary designations are a critical yet often overlooked detail. These designations determine who will receive your assets, such as retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and bank accounts, upon your death. Keeping them current is vital to ensuring your wishes are honored and your estate plan functions smoothly. Many people […]
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As we age, the possibility of needing assistance with daily activities becomes a reality for many. Long-term care insurance (LTCI) is one way to prepare for such needs, providing financial support for services like home care, assisted living, or nursing home care. Let’s explore what LTCI is, its pros and cons, tips for selecting the […]
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For those who have spent years curating a collection of art, antiques, or rare items, the idea of passing it on requires more than a simple clause in a will. These collections often hold significant monetary value, but their true worth lies in the passion and personal history they represent. Thoughtful estate planning ensures that […]
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As the year draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to review your estate plan, and ensure it’s still aligned with your goals and the latest tax laws. Proactive steps now can help minimize tax liabilities, maximize gifting opportunities, and set the stage for a smooth transition for your assets. Here are a couple […]
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When you’re a parent of a child with special needs, your days are filled with love, challenges, and countless decisions about the future. While legal documents like Special Needs Trusts and guardianship forms are vital, there’s one useful tool many families overlook—a Letter of Intent (LOI), or sometimes called, Instruction to My Trustee. This informal […]
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