Planning for the distribution of assets after death is an important aspect of estate planning. However, not everyone takes the time to create a will. In California, dying without a will, also known as dying intestate, can have significant consequences. This article...
Wills
What can happen if you fail to create a will?
Nobody knows when their last day on this earth will be. For that reason, planning ahead of the inevitable is essential. You may feel like you do not have a need for a will, but even if you have few assets, a will can be incredibly beneficial. There is a range of...
Estate planning at any age: 3 reasons to make a will now
As a young individual with a new or growing family, creating a will is probably low on your list of priorities. However, creating such a document is not only for the elderly or those who have major assets they need to protect. Gallup reports that fewer than half of...
3 reasons to have a will
Every estate plan is unique to the person who creates it. Your individual situation dictates the documents that you include in your plan. While there is no requirement that your estate plan must contain a will, the American Bar Association points out a few ways it can...
What is a codicil to a will and how many times may I add one?
California’s Probate Code defines a codicil as a “testamentary” document. This type of legal instrument may update or retract the instructions in an existing will. You may add a codicil to a valid will as often as you wish. A range of circumstances may come about that...
What happens when my will enters probate?
With assets worth at least $166,250, your will must pass through the probate court so your heirs may take legal ownership of your properties. The Judicial Council of California’s website notes that the individual who has custody of your will must submit it to the...