Devising a will can either be relatively simple or it can be extraordinarily difficult depending on the circumstances at hand. This can include the number of assets and debts involved, the number of identified heirs and the complexities involved in the way that an individual intends to leave his or her estate via a will. Regardless of how in-depth a will needs to be though, an individual needs to ensure that it is crafted with clarity and thoroughness. Failing to do so could lead to a contested will.
Abatement, ademption and other estate planning lingo
Like a lot of areas of the law, estate planning to some extent has developed its own lingo to describe various rules and concepts quickly and efficiently.
California firm can assist with comprehensive estate planning
Last week on this blog, we talked about estate planning as it relates to hard assets, such as family heirlooms. Finding a satisfactory way to deal with this issue can be challenging, especially when multiple family members are hoping to inherit a specific piece of property. Yet, dealing with hard assets is just a small piece of the estate planning puzzle.
Ways to deal with hard assets in your estate plan
Figuring out how to divide assets is one of the hardest parts of estate planning. Many Californians choose to split an estate equally amongst loved ones, but even this can become challenging. Whereas assets like cash, stocks and bonds are easy to value and then divide, other assets, like family heirlooms are much more difficult to address. Yet, there are certain steps to help work through this process and ensure that hard assets are distributed in accordance with one's wishes.
Tips on how to talk to loved ones about estate planning
California estate planning can be a difficult topic to contemplate, let alone discuss with loved ones. Many think that looping beloved family members into the conversation about estate planning can further family transparency and leave everyone feeling better. But, sometimes, communications do not go as planned. When this happens, arguments can ensue and feelings can be hurt. In short, bad communication may throw estate planning off the tracks.
