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!
Is It Possible To Avoid Probate?
Probate is a word that many of my clients have heard but need clarification on what it means. Simply put, probate is a legal process where a court oversees the distribution of your assets after you pass away. It can be lengthy, costly, and public. As an Estate Planning Lawyer in California, I meet many…
Family Meetings About Estate Planning: Protecting Your Legacy in California (2025)
Family meetings about estate planning often seem like awkward chores everyone hopes to avoid. Yet studies show that 70 percent of intergenerational wealth transfers actually fail because families skip these conversations. Most would expect tension to die down by sidestepping the topic, but the real surprise is that silence only breeds confusion, legal battles, and…
Living Trusts vs. Wills: Which is Right for You?
Living Trusts vs. Wills: Which is Right for You? Planning for the future can be daunting, especially when it comes to deciding how your assets will be managed after you’re gone. One of the biggest questions people face is whether to use a living trust or a will. Both tools have their benefits and limitations,…
Understanding the Basics of 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 in the event of incapacitation. It ensures that your wishes are honored, your loved ones are cared for, and your financial legacy is preserved. At its core, estate planning is…
Your Guide to Estate Planning with a Ventura Attorney
Secure your family’s future with an estate planning attorney Ventura. Learn about wills, trusts, Medicaid eligibility and more in our comprehensive guide.
How to Handle Estate Planning for Out-of-State Properties
Understanding the Basics of Estate Planning for Out-of-State Properties Estate planning is a critical process that ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes after your passing. While it may seem straightforward to plan for properties located in your home state, owning out-of-state properties introduces additional complexities. These properties are subject to the laws…
Estate Planning for Property Owners: Protecting Your Family and California Assets in 2025
California real estate is among the most valuable in the country and families can lose over 3% of property value in probate costs alone without proper planning. Most people assume just having a will keeps everything safe and simple. The truth is, relying on generic documents or skipping regular updates could leave your family facing…
How to Plan for Long-Term Care in Your Estate Plan
Understanding the Importance of Long-Term Care Planning Long-term care planning is an essential component of any comprehensive estate plan. As life expectancy continues to rise, more individuals are facing the reality of needing extended care in their later years. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, nearly 70% of people aged 65…
Revocable vs Irrevocable Trust: Smart Estate Planning 2025
Estate planning gets a lot of buzz, but most people do not realize the true power hidden in the right kind of trust. Believe it or not, irrevocable trusts can slice your estate taxes and shield assets in ways revocable trusts simply cannot. Yet, the flexibility and personal control offered by a revocable trust often…
How to Create a Comprehensive Estate Plan
What is an Estate Plan and Why is it Important? An estate plan is a collection of legal documents and strategies designed to manage and distribute your assets after your death or during incapacitation. It ensures that your wishes regarding property, finances, healthcare, and guardianship are carried out effectively. At its core, an estate plan…
5-Star Client
Feedback
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(...)
