Prepare for Disability
The statistics from the Center for Health Statistics paint a clear picture: many of us will face a critical illness at some point. Without a well-crafted power of attorney and a flexible trust, navigating your assets or making healthcare decisions during a disability may require court involvement.
Avoid Joint Tenancy Pitfalls
While joint tenancy can sometimes bypass probate, it often means leaving all assets to the surviving owner, bypassing other intended beneficiaries. This can complicate passing on your property to spouses, children, or other loved ones and may even lead to increased taxes upon sale.
Manage Taxes Wisely
Gifting property during your lifetime can trigger taxable gains for your beneficiaries. An effective estate plan, however, can minimize or eliminate these tax implications by gifting assets upon your death.
Protect Your Children
Whether your children are minors or adults, safeguarding their financial future is paramount. Without clear directives in a will or trust, the courts may decide how your assets are managed, potentially leading to unintended consequences or financial strain for your loved ones.
Reconsidering Your Children's Future
Contrary to common assumptions, without a will or trust, state laws dictate asset distribution, often splitting inheritance between your spouse and children, including minors. This can pose financial challenges for your surviving spouse and impact your children's future stability.
Ensure Privacy and Confidentiality
Probate court proceedings typically require notifying extended family members beyond your immediate heirs, potentially inviting challenges to your wishes. In contrast, trusts offer greater privacy and confidentiality, bypassing the public scrutiny of probate and minimizing the risk of disputes.
For general inquiries, please contact us using the form below:
For general inquiries, please contact us using the form below:
OFFICE ADDRESS
8383 Wilshire Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA, 90211, US
