The IRS has proposed new regulations that, if enacted, could drastically affect estate planning for small business owners and farmers in California's Central Valley. Under the new regulations, the long-established practice of discounting shares of a family-owned...
Month: August 2016
How often should an estate plan be reviewed?
In this California estate planning blog, we've written many posts about the importance of having an estate plan and of not postponing the estate planning process. But the process isn't necessarily over when the will or trust has been drafted, signed and witnessed....
Guiding clients through the estate planning process
We all want what is best for our family; however, in order to accomplish such a task, we need to think about the future and the what-ifs. For some California residents, this process is not always easy, but the reality is that estate planning can accomplish essential...
Should children always receive equal shares in an estate plan?
It's probably safe to say that the majority of people who prepare estate plans in California leave their children equal shares of their estate. But, is this always the best way to do it? Are there times when it is actually fairer to leave unequal shares to the kids,...
Alternatives to guardianship for an incapacitated loved one
As the baby boom generation ages, many people in California are dealing with the issue of elderly relatives who can no longer make decisions on their own behalf. When a loved one becomes incapacitated due to dementia, illness or injury, it is sometimes necessary for...