From time to time, clients or potential clients ask what happens to their assets if they pass away while in a long-term relationship but are not legally married. Many are surprised to learn that, under California law, unmarried partners do not have the same automatic rights as spouses. Without pr...

Owning a vacation home in California can bring years of enjoyment and lasting family memories. However, these properties also present unique estate planning considerations. Many clients want to ensure that their vacation homes stay in the family and are managed in a way that reflects their intent...

When creating an estate plan in California, one of the primary goals for many individuals is ensuring that their hard-earned assets are passed on to their loved ones, rather than being claimed by creditors. Whether you're a small business owner, a homeowner, or someone with significant investment...

If you own property in California but reside in another state or country, it's important to understand the unique estate planning considerations that come with owning real estate in the Golden State. California's laws differ from those in other states, and these differences can have a significant...

Losing a loved one is difficult enough without the added stress of legal disputes. But sometimes, family members or other interested parties believe a will doesn't reflect the true intentions of the person who passed away. In California, it's possible to contest a will—but doing so is a serious l...

One of the most important considerations in estate planning, especially for parents of young children, is determining who will care for your children if something happens to you. In California, this is where the role of a guardian comes into play. A guardian is a trusted individual who will be re...

One of the most important considerations when planning your estate is how to protect it from creditors. Whether it's potential lawsuits, unpaid debts, or other financial obligations, safeguarding your assets is a crucial part of ensuring your wealth is passed down to your heirs. In California, th...

One of the most common questions I receive in my estate planning practice is whether a "Do-It-Yourself" (DIY) Will is a valid and safe option in California. While the allure of creating a cheap, quick Will may seem tempting, the risks associated with DIY Wills are often overlooked. A Will is an i...

What to Do When an Heir is Disinherited from Your Will or TrustPosted by Mark Ruiz | [Date] | 888 Comments In California, the decision to disinherit an heir from your will or trust can be a difficult one, but it is sometimes necessary for various reasons. However, disinheriting an heir can creat...

Estate Planning for Digital Nomads: How to Plan When You're Living AbroadPosted by Mark Ruiz | [Date] | 888 Comments In today's world, the rise of remote work has allowed many individuals to embrace the freedom of the "digital nomad" lifestyle. Whether you're working from a beach in Bali, a café...