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!
California Medi-Cal Asset Limits Return January 2026: Families Have One Year to Plan
California just pulled the rug out from under families planning for long-term care. California’s temporary elimination of Medi-Cal asset limits ends January 1, 2026 and the new rules will catch many people off guard. The New Reality Starting January 1, 2026, these asset limits return: $130,000 for individuals $195,000 for couples Plus $65,000 for each…
The Importance of Estate Planning for Small Business Owners
The Importance of Estate Planning for Small Business Owners As a small business owner, you pour your heart and soul into your enterprise, nurturing it from a fledgling idea into a thriving business. However, have you ever considered what happens to your business when you’re no longer around to manage it? Estate planning is crucial…
Understanding How Probate Works in 2025
Discover how probate works in 2025, including key concepts, why it matters, and how it impacts your family’s future.
10 Things That Happen When You Die Without A Will And Trust
Why You Should Have A Will 58% of Americans currently do not have a will. For those with children under the age of 18, the numbers are even worse — only 36% of their parents and guardians have a will, meaning a full 64% of people who are taking care of minor children have no end-of-life…
I’m Not Rich. Do I Need an Estate Plan?
One of the most common myths about estate planning I hear over and over again is, “I don’t have any money. Why would I need an estate plan?” It is easy to understand why someone might think this – after all, estate planning is for rich people, right? This is a dangerous myth! In fact,…
What Is Estate Planning?
I think “estate planning” may be too large, or too vague of a term. It’s hard to explain in an elevator pitch, what an estate planning lawyer does. Yes, there are documents to prepare. But that’s not it. I look at the practice of estate planning as helping people protect their loved ones, and even…
Why Should I Consider a Trust Instead of a Will?
Hi there, I’m Eric Ridley from The Law Office of Eric Ridley in California, and today I’m going to talk about a common question I get asked: why consider a trust instead of a will? Legal topics can get pretty dense, but don’t worry, I’ll keep it simple and easy to understand. When you think…
Estate Planning for the Modern Family: New Trends and Strategies
Estate Planning for the Modern Family: New Trends and Strategies Estate planning has evolved significantly over the years, adapting to the changing dynamics of the modern family. With new trends emerging, it’s crucial for families to stay informed and strategize effectively. Whether it’s accommodating non-traditional family structures or incorporating digital assets, the landscape of estate…
Understanding DIY Probate Risks for California Families
Explore DIY probate risks to safeguard your family’s future and understand their impact on estate planning and wealth management.
The Pitfalls of DIY Trusts: Why Self-Prepared Trusts Often Fail in California
The Pitfalls of DIY Trusts: Why Self-Prepared Trusts Often Fail in California Establishing a living trust is a cornerstone of effective estate planning in California, offering individuals the ability to manage and distribute their assets efficiently, avoid probate, and provide for loved ones. With the proliferation of online legal forms and do-it-yourself (DIY) estate planning…
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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(...)
