PARENTS & HOMEOWNERS: MY 7-STEP ESTATE PLANNING PROCESS WILL PROTECT YOUR HEIRS

From Creditors, Predators & Bad Choices, And Will Help You Become a (Bigger) Hero to Your Family!

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What Are The Benefits of an Estate Plan?

By Estate Planning Attorney Eric Ridley | November 28, 2026

To some, estate planning may seem like something for individuals in higher tax brackets. The idea may conjure up images from black and white movies of a stuffy lawyer in a mansion’s study, divvying out untold millions to scandalous heirs and devious distant cousins. But you don’t have to be William Randolph Hearst to prepare…

All About Wills And Trusts

By Estate Planning Attorney Eric Ridley | November 19, 2026

Trusts are very useful, flexible tools to hold assets. They allow for management of assets during your life, upon your incapacity, and for the continued management of the assets after your death. Perhaps you’d continue to hold the assets in trust until your children reach a suitable age to manage the money for themselves, like…

How Do I Avoid Probate Court in California?

By Estate Planning Attorney Eric Ridley | October 1, 2026

Probate is a formal process to settle a person’s estate when they pass, whether or not there is a will. Since probate is supervised by the deceased’s residential county probate court, that county’s law ultimately decides who receives the money or property of the deceased. If a will is in place, the county ensures that…

10 Worst Mistakes You Can Make with Your Estate Planning

By Estate Planning Attorney Eric Ridley | September 10, 2026

Estate planning is a crucial process that ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes after your death. However, many people make mistakes that can lead to unintended consequences and disputes among family members. In this article, we will discuss the ten worst mistakes you can make with your estate planning and how to…

Will Vs Estate Planning Vs Trust

By Estate Planning Attorney Eric Ridley | September 10, 2026

A trust can be used in place of a will or in addition to a will. Trusts help avoid probate.

California Traffic Ticket Fines Increased

By Estate Planning Attorney Eric Ridley | September 9, 2026

Oh boy. Another new year, and the fine folks in the California legislature have increased fines for traffic violations. Here’s a list of what you can expect to pay (and remember, you will be adding Court costs and other fees to these): California Traffic Ticket Fines (Effective 01/06/2011) VC 12814.6    $214           Failure to obey license…

How Long Can Bankruptcy Stay on Your Credit Report in California?

By Estate Planning Attorney Eric Ridley | August 30, 2026

Bankruptcy is a viable option that helps hundreds of thousands of Americans each year put their heads above water after drowning in debt. However, once a person files for bankruptcy, it can wreak havoc on their credit report. Even after recovering financially, a person may try to buy a car or take out a loan…

Can a Trust Be Changed or Revoked?

By Estate Planning Attorney Eric Ridley | August 17, 2026

Hi, I’m Eric Ridley from The Law Office of Eric Ridley in California. Today, let’s talk about a common question I get: Can a trust be changed or revoked? Many people think that once a trust is set up, it’s set in stone. But that’s not always the case. Trusts can be flexible, and understanding…

What is the Difference Between a Living Will and an Advance Healthcare Directive? 

By Estate Planning Attorney Eric Ridley | July 14, 2026

Maybe you have spent time in the medical field or have begun planning your own wishes regarding the future of your medical care. If so, you are probably familiar with the terms “living will” or “advance healthcare directive.” But what, specifically, are they? How do they differ from each other? And most importantly, how do…

Why Should You Consider Naming a Guardian for Your Children?

By Estate Planning Attorney Eric Ridley | July 2, 2026

As parents, we want to be around well into our children’s later years. We want to watch them grow and become the people they will become, as they possibly have and raise their own children. Or, at the very least, as they settle down with a few pets we can visit. But the stark reality…

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