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!
Introduction to Estate Planning and Asset Protection: Safeguarding Your Assets for the Future
Introduction to Estate Planning and Asset Protection Estate planning is a deliberate process designed to manage and preserve assets while a person is alive, and distribute them according to their objectives after death.It’s not just about the transmission of property after death but involves various personal matters such as healthcare directives and providing for minor…
Understanding the Probate Process
When someone passes away, their estate often goes through a legal process called probate. As an estate planning lawyer at The Law Office of Eric Ridley in California, I frequently guide clients through this process. Probate involves validating the deceased’s will, paying off debts, and distributing assets to beneficiaries. While it can sound daunting, my…
Understanding Probate Process in California: 2025 Guide for Families and Homeowners
California probate can be a tangled web for families hoping to keep their home and wealth safe after losing a loved one. Most people are shocked to learn that the average probate process in California takes anywhere from nine months to over a year and can cost up to 5% of the estate’s total value…
How to Protect Your Estate from Creditors and Lawsuits
How to Protect Your Estate from Creditors and Lawsuits In today’s world, safeguarding your assets from potential threats is more important than ever. Whether you’re concerned about future lawsuits or creditors trying to claim a piece of your hard-earned wealth, taking proactive measures can provide peace of mind. This guide will walk you through effective…
How to Choose the Right Trustee for Your Trust
What Is a Trustee and Why Are They Important? A trustee is an individual or entity responsible for managing and administering a trust according to its terms and the best interests of its beneficiaries. When you create a trust, you essentially transfer ownership of your assets to the trust, and the trustee becomes the steward…
The Importance of Wills in Estate Planning
What is a Will and Why is it Essential in Estate Planning? A will is a legal document that outlines your wishes regarding the distribution of your assets and the care of any dependents after your death. It serves as a cornerstone of estate planning, ensuring that your intentions are honored and your loved ones…
Choosing the Right Executor: Essential Guidelines for Estate Planning
Choosing an Executor for Your Estate Introduction The process of estate planning is an integral part of securing your financial future and ensuring your wishes are honored after your passing.Among all the decisions to be made during this process, the selection of an executor for your estate is one of the most consequential.The executor is…
How Estate Planning Can Prevent Family Disputes
Understanding Estate Planning: A Brief Overview Estate planning is the process of organizing and documenting how your assets and responsibilities will be managed and distributed after your death or in the event of incapacitation. It involves creating legal documents such as wills, trusts, and powers of attorney to ensure your wishes are carried out. The…
The Benefits of Setting Up a Family Trust in California
The Benefits of Setting Up a Family Trust in California In today’s world, safeguarding your family’s assets and ensuring a smooth transfer of wealth to the next generation is a priority for many. One effective way to achieve this is by setting up a family trust. Particularly in California, where the legal landscape offers unique…
Estate Planning Checklist 2025: Protecting California Families
Estate planning in California has taken on a whole new meaning for families in 2025. You might think a simple will is enough, but families who skip the details could leave their loved ones in turmoil or miss out on major safeguards. The real jaw-dropper is that over half of California families still do not…
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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(...)
Reasonable Cost
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(...)
