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!
The Legal Process of Contesting a Will in California
What Does It Mean to Contest a Will in California? Contesting a will in California refers to the legal process of challenging the validity of a deceased person’s will in probate court. This is typically done by individuals who believe the will does not accurately reflect the decedent’s true intentions or was created under improper…
The Benefits of Naming a Trust as a Beneficiary
What Is a Trust and How Does It Work? A trust is a legal arrangement that allows a person, known as the grantor, to transfer assets to a trustee, who manages those assets on behalf of the trust’s beneficiaries. Essentially, a trust acts as a container for your assets, ensuring they are distributed according to…
How to Avoid Family Disputes Through Estate Planning
Why Estate Planning is Essential for Family Harmony Estate planning is more than just a legal process—it’s a proactive way to protect your family’s relationships and ensure your wishes are honored. Without a clear estate plan, families often face confusion, disagreements, and even legal battles over asset distribution, guardianship, and healthcare decisions. These disputes can…
How to Create a Comprehensive Estate Plan
What Is an Estate Plan and Why Is It Important? An estate plan is a strategic arrangement of legal documents and decisions designed to manage and distribute your assets after your death or during incapacitation. It encompasses everything from your financial holdings, real estate, and personal belongings to healthcare directives and guardianship for minor children.…
How to Protect Your Assets with a Revocable Living Trust
What Is a Revocable Living Trust? A revocable living trust is a legal arrangement that allows you to manage and protect your assets during your lifetime and distribute them after your death without the need for probate. Unlike irrevocable trusts, which cannot be altered once established, a revocable living trust offers flexibility. As the grantor…
How to Avoid Common Probate Pitfalls
What is Probate and Why Does it Matter? Probate is the legal process through which a deceased person’s estate is administered and distributed to heirs or beneficiaries. It involves validating the deceased’s will (if one exists), settling debts, and ensuring the proper transfer of assets. While probate serves an essential role in estate administration, it…
How to Update Your Estate Plan After Major Life Changes
Understanding the Importance of Updating Your Estate Plan An estate plan is not a "set it and forget it" document. It’s a living, breathing plan that should evolve as your life circumstances change. Major life events—whether joyous, challenging, or unexpected—can significantly impact your financial and personal priorities. If your estate plan doesn’t reflect these changes,…
The Role of an Attorney in Estate Planning
What is Estate Planning? Estate planning is the process of organizing and preparing for the management and distribution of your assets after your death or during periods of incapacity. It involves creating legal documents, such as wills, trusts, and powers of attorney, to ensure your wishes are carried out and your loved ones are protected.…
How Trusts Can Help You Avoid Probate
What is Probate and Why Should You Avoid It? Probate is the legal process through which a deceased person’s estate is administered and distributed to their heirs or beneficiaries. It involves validating the deceased’s will (if one exists), identifying and appraising assets, paying off debts and taxes, and distributing the remaining assets to the rightful…
How to Minimize Estate Taxes Through Strategic Planning
Understanding Estate Taxes Estate taxes, often referred to as "death taxes," are levied on the transfer of wealth from a deceased individual to their heirs. These taxes can significantly reduce the value of an estate, impacting the financial legacy left behind for loved ones. In the United States, federal estate taxes apply to estates exceeding…
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Mr. Ridley is just fantastic. He is knowledgable, attentive, honest and was very patient with my many many questions about my legal situation. I am especially appreciative that he helped me to understand that my situation had a resolution in s(...)
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Eric did an excellent job creating our Living Trust. His work was very detailed and thorough, and at a very reasonable cost. I could reach him easily to discuss concerns or questions, and he offered great advice. His depth and e(...)
Favorite Lawyer of All Time
Eric Ridley has to be my favorite Lawyer of all time. He helped me out tremendously being the executor of a family trust. I would give him 10 out of 10 no doubt! He did such a good job for me that I recommended him t(...)
