Journal
Plain-English guidance on wills, trusts, probate, and protecting your family in California.
Does a Living Trust Protect Assets From Nursing Home Costs?
No — a revocable trust gives zero protection from long-term-care costs. Why, what Medi-Cal actually counts, and the honest version of what planning can and can't do.
Read →Homeowner’s Insurance After Putting Your House in a Trust
Deeding your home into a living trust without updating the insurance can leave a coverage gap. The one call to make, and what to ask about title insurance…
Read →Community Property With Right of Survivorship vs. Joint Tenancy
Married Californians holding title as joint tenants may be giving away a full step-up in basis. The CPWROS alternative, the double step-up, and when a trust beats both.
Read →How to Transfer a Mobile Home After a Death in California
Most mobile homes aren't 'real estate' — they're titled through HCD, not the county recorder, and AI tools get this wrong constantly. The actual forms and steps.
Read →How to Refuse an Inherited Timeshare in California
You are not required to inherit a timeshare. The 9-month disclaimer window, the one mistake that locks you in, and what happens to the maintenance fees.
Read →Does Your Spouse Automatically Get Your 401(k)? ERISA vs. IRA Rules
For a 401(k), federal law makes your spouse the beneficiary unless they sign a notarized waiver — IRAs work completely differently. The blended-family trap explained.
Read →Inheritance Advance Companies: What They Really Cost
Probate cash advances aren't loans — so the effective cost can be startling. How California courts review these deals under §11604.5, and the cheaper alternatives.
Read →Am I Entitled to a Copy of the Trust? California’s 120-Day Notice
When a California trust becomes irrevocable, the trustee must send a statutory notice — and beneficiaries can demand the trust's terms. The 16061.7 rules and real deadlines.
Read →Want a straight read on where you stand?
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