PARENTS & HOMEOWNERS: MY 7-STEP ESTATE PLANNING PROCESS WILL PROTECT YOUR HEIRS

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Understanding the Role of a Trust Administration Lawyer

By Estate Planning Attorney Eric Ridley| Jun 21, 2025

Understanding the Role of a Trust Administration Lawyer In the intricate world of estate planning, a trust administration lawyer plays a pivotal role. Whether you’re setting up a trust or managing one, understanding what these legal professionals do can be incredibly beneficial. Let’s dive into the essential functions of a trust administration lawyer and why…

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Probate Court Fees 2025: What California Families Must Know

By tilen| Jun 21, 2025

Probate court fees are about to hit California families harder than many realize in 2025. Think the real financial pain only strikes the ultra-wealthy? Not so fast. Even a modest $500,000 estate can rack up over $16,000 in required statutory fees before anyone sees a dime of inheritance. Here is the twist. These fees are…

Emergency Conservatorship in California: What You Need to Know

By Estate Planning Attorney Eric Ridley| Jun 21, 2025

Planning for emergencies might not be the first thing on your mind, but acting quickly during a crisis can make all the difference for someone you care about. When a loved one is suddenly unable to manage their health or finances—whether due to illness, an accident, or another unexpected event—you might wonder what legal steps…

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The Consequences of Dying Without a Will: Navigating Intestacy and Probate with Eric Ridley

By Estate Planning Attorney Eric Ridley| Jun 21, 2025

The article discusses the importance of creating a will, the implications of dying without a will, and the role of intestacy laws in determining asset distribution, emphasizing the personalized estate planning services offered by the Law Office of Eric Ridley.

Do Not Send Email To Your Attorney From Your Work Account

By Estate Planning Attorney Eric Ridley| Jun 21, 2025

The Sacramento Third Appellate District court has ruled that emails sent from your work account to your attorney are not subject to traditional attorney-client privilege. Normally, communications between a client and his or her attorney is held in the strictest of confidence and is not subject to disclosure under most circumstances. The 3-0 decision Thursday…

The Top 10 Myths About Wills and Trusts Debunked

By Estate Planning Attorney Eric Ridley| Jun 20, 2025

The Top 10 Myths About Wills and Trusts Debunked When it comes to estate planning, misconceptions abound. Wills and trusts are often misunderstood, leading many to make uninformed decisions. In this blog post, we’ll explore and debunk the top 10 myths about wills and trusts, providing clarity and peace of mind for your estate planning…

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Special Needs Trusts Explained: California Families’ Guide 2025

By tilen| Jun 20, 2025

Special Needs Trusts might sound complicated, but for California families these legal tools are more important than ever. Here’s something most people miss. A single inheritance over $2,000 can wipe out someone’s eligibility for Medi-Cal or SSI overnight. That sounds risky, right? Yet the real power of Special Needs Trusts is not just saving benefits,…

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Do I Need A Will in California?

By Estate Planning Attorney Eric Ridley| Jun 20, 2025

You might wonder, “Do I need a will?”. As an estate planning lawyer in California, I hear this question often. The simple answer is yes, and here’s why. A will is not just about distributing your assets; it’s about making sure your wishes are known and respected after you’re gone. Without a will, the state…

How to Have Difficult Conversations About Estate Planning with Family

By Estate Planning Attorney Eric Ridley| Jun 20, 2025

You might feel uneasy about discussing estate planning with your family, but taking this step is vital for ensuring your wishes are honored and minimizing future conflicts. It’s important to approach these conversations with clarity and empathy, ensuring everyone understands the implications of your decisions. By fostering an environment of open dialogue, you can navigate…

The Importance of Naming a Guardian in Your Will

By Estate Planning Attorney Eric Ridley| Jun 20, 2025

What Does It Mean to Name a Guardian in Your Will? In the context of estate planning, naming a guardian in your will is one of the most significant decisions you can make as a parent. A guardian is a person legally designated to care for your minor children in the event of your death.…

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