Darling & Wilson, PC Legal Blog
3 tips for telling loved ones about your estate plan
Creating your estate plan is one of the most important tasks you have as an adult. This enables you to let your loved ones know how you want your assets distributed after you die. It also provides them with information about what you want to happen if you become...
What protections does an irrevocable trust offer?
An irrevocable trust is a powerful tool for asset protection and long-term financial planning. It’s not easily changed once it has been established, which provides a variety of protections for the assets within the trust. This is especially valuable in California,...
2 things to do when planning to make charitable will bequests
In recent years, more Americans are playing an active role in philanthropy by supporting charitable organizations throughout their lives. Many are also interested in continuing their support once they leave this world. You can make charitable donations in your will to...
When might people add trusts to their estate plans?
For many people, simplicity is their main objective during the estate planning process. Many testators aspire to achieve as much as possible with the fewest documents. However, there are certain goals people cannot achieve with a simple will. More involved documents,...
How to leave assets to caregivers and avoid a family will contests
Are you one of the many Americans who’s “aging in place?” Even if you’re living in your own home and leading a relatively independent life, you likely still rely on one or more people to help you with things like repairs, getting to and from doctors’ appointments and...
Tips to help avoid a will contest
A will contest is when someone believes that a decedent’s will should not stand. This can lead to a significant dispute between heirs. One person may claim that the will is fraudulent, for example, while the rest of the heirs believe that it is real and should be...
3 red flags that your business partner could be dishonest
You’ve probably heard the adage, “two are better than one.” This is incredibly true when you are in business with the right partner. With the right partner by your side, you can grow your brand, make profits and realize your entrepreneurship dreams. But a successful...
Is there anything you can do to avoid the probate process?
Probate, the legal procedure for validating a will and distributing assets after someone passes away, can be lengthy, costly, and complex. Many things can go wrong during probate, from misappropriation of assets to prolonged legal battles arising from family disputes....
When is it time to update an estate plan?
Estate plans can be made to help instruct how a testator's assets should be distributed. This way there’s no confusion as to how an estate should be handled after the testator's passing. Furthermore, an estate plan can include several important details such as who...
Should married spouses share a will or have separate ones?
Many married couples do everything together, even creating an estate plan or a will. Since they share so much of their lives, it may seem logical to make a joint will. Sharing a final will might not seem like a problem, but it is generally better for everyone to have...