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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Navigating Probate Administration in Oxnard: A Step-by-Step Guide

By Estate Planning Attorney Eric Ridley | Feb 25, 2025

Navigating Probate Administration in Oxnard: A Step-by-Step Guide Probate administration can be a daunting process, especially during the emotional time following a loved one’s death. In Oxnard, understanding the probate process is crucial for ensuring a smooth and efficient settlement of an estate. This guide will walk you through each step of the probate administration…

What Are The Benefits of an Estate Plan?

By Estate Planning Attorney Eric Ridley | Feb 24, 2025

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…

How Taxes Affect Your Estate Plan

By Estate Planning Attorney Eric Ridley | Feb 24, 2025

You may not realize how tax obligations can significantly impact your estate planning. Understanding the nuances of estate taxes, gift taxes, and other relevant tax laws can help you make informed decisions that not only preserve your assets but also maximize benefits for your heirs. Planning effectively can allow you to minimize your tax liabilities…

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What Happens If I Die Without A Will (Intestate) In California?

By Estate Planning Attorney Eric Ridley | Feb 24, 2025

Hi, I’m Eric Ridley, your friendly neighborhood estate planning lawyer from California. Today, let’s talk about something we often push to the back of our minds but is essential – what happens if you pass away without a will in California? Dying without a will, also known as dying intestate, can lead to unexpected and…

The Benefits of Creating an Advanced Directive in California

By Estate Planning Attorney Eric Ridley | Feb 24, 2025

The Benefits of Creating an Advanced Directive in California In today’s fast-paced world, planning for the future is crucial, especially when it comes to healthcare decisions. An Advanced Directive is a legal document that allows Californians to outline their healthcare preferences in case they become incapacitated. This blog post explores the myriad benefits of creating…

Estate Planning 101: What You Need to Know to Secure Your Future

By Estate Planning Attorney Eric Ridley | Feb 23, 2025

Estate planning is the process of arranging for the management and distribution of an individual’s assets and liabilities upon their death or incapacity. It is a crucial aspect of financial planning that ensures your wishes are carried out and your loved ones are provided for in the event of your passing. A comprehensive estate plan…

The Importance of a Living Will in Your Estate Plan

By Estate Planning Attorney Eric Ridley | Feb 23, 2025

What is a Living Will? A living will is a critical legal document that outlines your preferences for medical treatment and end-of-life care in situations where you are unable to communicate your wishes. Unlike a last will and testament, which deals with the distribution of your assets after death, a living will focuses on healthcare…

Tips for Selecting an Elder Law Attorney in Ventura County

By Estate Planning Attorney Eric Ridley | Feb 23, 2025

Tips for Selecting an Elder Law Attorney in Ventura County As we or our loved ones age, it becomes increasingly important to address various legal matters that could impact our future. Whether it’s planning for long-term care, managing estates, or navigating elder rights, the expertise of an elder law attorney is invaluable. However, choosing the…

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What Happens to the Trust When I Die?

By Estate Planning Attorney Eric Ridley | Feb 22, 2025

​​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…

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How Long Does The Probate Process Take In California?

By Estate Planning Attorney Eric Ridley | Feb 22, 2025

When someone passes away in California, their estate typically goes through a legal process known as probate. It’s my job as an estate planning lawyer to help you understand this process. Think of probate as the court’s way of ensuring your estate is properly managed and distributed according to your wishes. It’s a crucial step…

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