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!
Asset Protection Trusts in California: Secure Your Family’s Legacy (2025)
California families are searching for ways to keep their hard-earned wealth safe from lawsuits and unexpected financial threats. Most people think asset protection trusts are something only the ultra-wealthy need. Here is the shocker. California only recognizes three types of protective trusts, limiting your options compared to other states. That twist means your strategy requires…
Probate Court Fees in California: What Successful Families Need to Know (2025)
Probate court fees in California can quietly strip away wealth that took a lifetime to build. For many families, the sticker shock sets in when they realize that statutory probate fees average between four and seven percent of an estate’s gross value and are calculated before debts are even deducted. Here’s the twist. These court-mandated…
Real Estate in Probate: California Planning Guide for Wealthy Families 2025
California is rolling out new rules that will change the way wealthy families handle real estate in probate. Starting April 1, 2025, the state will let primary residences valued under $750,000 move through the probate process in as little as 2 to 6 months—down from the usual 9 to 18 months. Sounds simple, right? Actually,…
Which Is Better For You In California, Revocable Or Irrevocable Trusts?
When planning your estate, choosing the right type of trust is crucial. In California, the two primary types are revocable and irrevocable trusts. Understanding their differences can help you decide which fits your family’s needs best. What Is a Revocable Trust? A revocable trust, sometimes called a living trust, allows you to maintain control over…
How to Avoid Probate with Proper Estate Planning
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. This process typically involves validating the deceased’s will (if one exists), identifying and appraising assets, paying off debts and taxes, and distributing the remaining assets to…
How to Plan Your Estate for Charitable Giving
Understanding Charitable Giving in Estate Planning Charitable giving in estate planning is a powerful way to leave a lasting legacy while supporting causes that matter to you. It involves allocating a portion of your estate—whether assets, funds, or property—to charitable organizations as part of your overall estate plan. This approach not only benefits the recipient…
Special Needs Trusts California 2025: Protecting Family Wealth and Children’s Futures
Families across California are looking for ways to protect their children’s futures, especially when a loved one has special needs. Here’s something most people miss. Exceeding just $2,000 in assets can cost a disabled child all government support. It sounds shocking, but even a well-meant inheritance can accidentally erase years of safety nets. The real…
Top 5 Reasons to Update Your Estate Plan Regularly
Top 5 Reasons to Update Your Estate Plan Regularly Estate planning might not be the most thrilling topic, but it’s an essential part of ensuring your wishes are honored and your loved ones are taken care of after you’re gone. 🏡 Yet, many people create an estate plan and then forget about it, assuming it’s…
What Are the Different Types of Trusts?
Hi there, I’m Eric Ridley from The Law Office of Eric Ridley in California. Trusts can seem daunting, but understanding them should be fine without a law degree. Let’s break down the different types of Trusts in a way that’s easy to grasp. After all, making informed decisions about your estate planning is crucial, and…
Why A Spendthrift Trust Can Be A Great Solution For Your Heirs
Why a Spendthrift Trust Can Be a Great Solution for Your Heirs There are many tools that can be used when putting together your estate plan. One such tool is a trust. A trust is a fiduciary arrangement, established by a grantor or trust maker, which gives a third party (known as a trustee) the…
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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(...)
