The Journal
Plain-English Estate Law
Plain-English guidance on wills, trusts, probate, and protecting your family in California.
Understanding Inter-Family Loans and Estate Planning
Explore inter-family loans and estate planning to safeguard your family's future and ensure wealth protection and guidance.
Read →When to Review Your Estate Plan: Ensure Your Family’s Future
Discover when to review your estate plan in 2026 and safeguard your family's future. Our guide covers life changes, finances, and professional advice. Get...
Read →Types of Trusts in California: Protecting Family Wealth in 2026
Quick answer: California recognizes many types of trusts, but most families choose from six: revocable living trusts (flexible, avoids probate), irrevocable trusts (stronger creditor protection), special needs trusts…
Read →How to Make a Valid Will in California
Create a valid CA will in 2026 with this guide. As a California attorney, I simplify the process and ensure it meets legal requirements for capacity,...
Read →Understanding Avoiding Family Conflicts Estate Planning
Explore avoiding family conflicts estate through a comprehensive understanding of its importance and effective strategies for families.
Read →How to Minimize Taxes Through Estate Planning
Short answer: California does not tax your estate or your heirs’ inheritance, and for 2026 the federal estate and gift tax exemption is $15,000,000 per person, or $30,000,000…
Read →How to Handle Debt in Estate Planning
Short answer: Your debts do not disappear when you die, and your family is not automatically on the hook for them just by inheriting from you. Debts, taxes,…
Read →How to Protect Your Assets with Trusts
Short answer: A trust protects your assets in some ways and not others. A properly funded revocable living trust keeps your estate out of probate and out of…
Read →Want a straight read on where you stand?
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