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Articles Posted in ESTATE PLANNING

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Simpsons Co-Creator’s Trust Faces $140,000 Bill for Dog Care

Many people are animal lovers, but few could match the dedication of the late Hollywood comedy writer Sam Simon. Simon, best known as one of the original developers of “The Simpsons,” died in March of 2015. His trust, reportedly worth “several hundred million dollars,” according to a recent story in…

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Joint Estate Planning Can Still Lead to Complications

Many spouses choose to execute a joint estate plan. For example, they may sign wills at the same time and promise to distribute property a certain way after the first spouse dies. Such agreements may be enforceable under California law, but it is important to follow certain procedures in the…

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California Laws Governing Assisted Suicide Remain in Limbo

A major part of estate planning is deciding how you wish to address quality-of-life issues if and when you suffer a terminal illness. Under current California law, a person has the “right to control the decisions relating to his or her own health care, including the decision to have life-sustaining…

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What Happens When Children Fight Over a Parent’s Estate?

You may think estate planning is unnecessary because California intestacy law automatically provides for the distribution of assets to your heirs, but intestacy law does not eliminate the need for an estate. Someone must still take responsibility for administering those assets and ensuring your heirs receive their fair share. Even…

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Why Is It Important to Make Your Estate Plan As Soon as Possible?

It is never advisable to wait until you are on your deathbed to finish (or start) your estate planning. This is especially true if there are potential complications with your estate, such as a pending bankruptcy, divorce or other issues that might affect the distribution of your property. By waiting…

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How Multiple Trusts May Complicate an Estate Plan

Although living trusts are a common estate planning tool, they can be quite complex. In fact, many estate plans include several trusts. Some of these trusts help with tax planning. Others keep a married couple’s individual and community property separate. It is therefore important when creating multiple trusts to understand…

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Late Actor’s Estate Prompts Litigation Between Sister, Biological Daughter

Many people avoid making a will because they assume they will die without leaving a probate estate. And while estate planning can help keep many assets out of probate, you should always prepare for unexpected claims that may arise after your death. For example, if your death is the result…

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