
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!

What is Substitute Service of Process?
When a lawsuit has been filed, it is the plaintiff’s job to serve a summons and complaint of action to the defendant. This procedure is called the service of process. While a plaintiff is not expected to be the person to hand the papers to the defendant, they must verify without a legal doubt that…
How Do I Avoid Probate Court in California?
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
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…
California Traffic Ticket Fines Increased
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?
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?
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?
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?
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…
What Happens to the Trust When I Die?
Hi, I’m Eric Ridley, an estate planning lawyer based in California. Today, I want to discuss a question many of my clients ask: “What happens to my trust when I die?” Let’s break this down in a simple, straightforward way. The Role of Your Trustee After Your Passing First things first: your trustee. This is…


