Darling & Wilson, PC Legal Blog
Who can contest a will?
Once a person makes an estate plan, they tend to assume that their assets will be passed down according to those wishes. They likely don’t expect that someone might decide to contest their will. However, this is a possibility. With this said, it’s important to note...
What should you consider when creating a special needs trust?
Estate planning is a great way of helping to ensure that your loved ones are provided for and your assets are distributed according to your wishes after you pass away. This includes those with special needs, whose care and financial security can be safeguarded through...
Filing final tax returns is a key executor responsibility
“In this world nothing is certain but death and taxes,” according to Ben Franklin. If you’re the executor of a loved one’s estate, you’re probably thinking about both of these things right now. One of the many responsibilities of an executor is to file the deceased’s...
Why do all adults need a digital estate plan?
Take a minute to consider what you do online every day. How many accounts do you access that require a login? What do you store in the Cloud? Do your loved ones know how to access your digital footprint in these ways and what you’d like done on your behalf in the...
When should you consider updating your will?
The decision to create a will is one that you should never take lightly. Done right, a will can clear any doubts regarding your wishes and ensure that your legacy and loved ones’ future are safeguarded. For your will to effectively reflect your wishes, however, it...
What relief can judges offer in a breach of contract lawsuit?
Some people say that contracts are the lifeblood of a business, and that saying has become a cliche for a reason. Contracts are crucial for companies' financial and legal protection. The agreements a business enters into can make or break the company, and putting the...
When should someone create an advance health care directive?
The purpose of an advance health care directive is to guide the medical treatment that someone receives if they cannot speak on their own behalf. An advance health care directive executed in compliance with California law can designate what kind of treatment someone...
3 questions to ask when estate planning
Estate planning is the process of instructing how your assets should be handled in anticipation of your passing. Your estate plan may be a proactive attempt at making it easier for your family and friends to settle your estate. Estate planning is a complicated...
4 different types of trusts
A will is a legal document that allows people to name beneficiaries. These beneficiaries have a legal right to assets in an estate. However, if the will is missing or contested, beneficiaries may end up waiting a long time before settling an estate, which can also...
Does your executor need to be bonded in California?
Your executor or “personal representative” is the person you name to make sure that your estate is properly handled. Assuming that there are no problems with their appointment, that’s the person the court will ultimately authorize to secure all your assets, pay your...