What are the essential elements of estate planning for a blended family here in San Diego or across California? According to the U.S. Census Bureau, almost 1 in 5 households in the United States involves a subsequent...more
Married couples have a special way to jointly own property in some states that has advantages over regular joint ownership. If you are married and own property jointly, you should make sure you have the right form of...more
Often an aging parent will add an adult child to the parent’s account as a joint holder to assist with asset management or bill payment. However, this may lead to an unintended result in California when the parent dies. The...more
In Maryland, you can make a beneficiary designation on your real property. This type of transaction is called a Life Estate Deed. It can be a very useful tool to avoid probate while also preserving tax benefits. There are two...more
A Last Will and Testament directs your Executor how and to whom your assets are to be disposed. If you do not have a Will, assets in your name when you die will pass under New York State’s intestacy laws. However, only the...more
An account that is titled in your name and that of your child “with right of survivorship” passes to your child upon your death “by operation of law.” That is, your Will does not control the disposition of this account. When...more
Predictability that joint owners/tenants need today: This spring, the Tennessee Supreme Court ruled that joint property owners can eliminate the survivorship rights of jointly held property, changing their ownership to...more