Estate Planning
Estate PlanningEstate planning in California is unique, and it’s important to work with someone who understands the state’s laws and requirements. A well-crafted estate plan ensures your wishes are honored, your loved ones are provided for, and allows your family to avoid unnecessary stress and expense after your passing.
Why Estate Planning MattersWithout a plan, your estate may be tied up in California’s probate process, which can take seven to eighteen months or longer to resolve. During that time, your family may face delays and added expenses. By creating the right documents, you can often avoid probate altogether.
Some estates valued under $184,500 may not require probate, but when you factor in real estate, retirement accounts, and other assets, many people exceed this threshold. That’s why proper planning is essential.
Wills, Trusts, and Protection During LifeAn estate plan often includes a will and may include a trust to manage the distribution of assets after your death. But good estate planning also anticipates protecting you during your lifetime if you are not able to manage your financial assets or health care decision-making.
Documents such as:
Keeping Your Plan CurrentIf you already have an estate plan, it’s important to revisit it regularly to make sure it still reflects your current circumstances. Life changes—such as marriage, divorce, children, new property, or retirement—may require updates to your plan. Sometimes, these changes are already anticipated in the original trust document.
How I Can Help
I have been assisting Californians with estate planning for many years. My goal is to help you protect yourself, your loved ones, and your assets with a plan tailored to your needs.
📞 Call 707-263-5759 to schedule a consultation and start the process of securing your family’s future.
ConservatorshipsA conservatorship is a legal proceeding in which the court appoints an individual—called a conservator—to manage the personal and/or financial affairs of someone who can no longer do so themselves. The person placed under the care of a conservator is known as the conservatee.
Conservators are often close family members or friends, but they can also be licensed professionals such as private fiduciaries or financial institutions. Depending on the circumstances, conservatorships may be temporary, permanent, or limited.
Types of Conservatorships
📞 If you are considering a conservatorship for a loved one in Lake County, call 707-263-5759 to schedule a consultation.
Why Estate Planning MattersWithout a plan, your estate may be tied up in California’s probate process, which can take seven to eighteen months or longer to resolve. During that time, your family may face delays and added expenses. By creating the right documents, you can often avoid probate altogether.
Some estates valued under $184,500 may not require probate, but when you factor in real estate, retirement accounts, and other assets, many people exceed this threshold. That’s why proper planning is essential.
Wills, Trusts, and Protection During LifeAn estate plan often includes a will and may include a trust to manage the distribution of assets after your death. But good estate planning also anticipates protecting you during your lifetime if you are not able to manage your financial assets or health care decision-making.
Documents such as:
- Durable Power of Attorney for Finances
- Advance Health Care Directive
Keeping Your Plan CurrentIf you already have an estate plan, it’s important to revisit it regularly to make sure it still reflects your current circumstances. Life changes—such as marriage, divorce, children, new property, or retirement—may require updates to your plan. Sometimes, these changes are already anticipated in the original trust document.
How I Can Help
I have been assisting Californians with estate planning for many years. My goal is to help you protect yourself, your loved ones, and your assets with a plan tailored to your needs.
📞 Call 707-263-5759 to schedule a consultation and start the process of securing your family’s future.
ConservatorshipsA conservatorship is a legal proceeding in which the court appoints an individual—called a conservator—to manage the personal and/or financial affairs of someone who can no longer do so themselves. The person placed under the care of a conservator is known as the conservatee.
Conservators are often close family members or friends, but they can also be licensed professionals such as private fiduciaries or financial institutions. Depending on the circumstances, conservatorships may be temporary, permanent, or limited.
Types of Conservatorships
- Conservator of the Person – Responsible for the conservatee’s health, well-being, and daily needs.
- Conservator of the Estate – Manages the conservatee’s financial matters.
- Managing finances and protecting assets
- Preparing an inventory of property and income
- Developing a plan to ensure the conservatee’s needs are met
- Paying bills and managing ongoing expenses
- Making prudent investments
- Filing taxes and financial reports with the court
- Complying with the rules of the California Conservator Handbook
- Court filings and ongoing reporting
- Compliance with strict procedures and deadlines
- A bond (an insurance policy for conservators of the estate)
📞 If you are considering a conservatorship for a loved one in Lake County, call 707-263-5759 to schedule a consultation.