Wills & Trusts

Plan Today. Protect Tomorrow.

A well-crafted estate plan is one of the most important gifts you can leave your family. Whether through a will, trust, or a combination of both, planning ahead ensures your wishes are honored and your loved ones are protected.

Why Estate Planning Matters

Without a plan, California law decides who receives your property — and the process can be slow, expensive, and stressful. A personalized will or trust lets you:

• Decide who inherits your property.
• Avoid or minimize probate court involvement.
• Appoint trusted individuals to handle your affairs.
• Protect minor children or loved ones with special needs.
• Plan for incapacity with powers of attorney and healthcare directives.

Wills in California

A will is a legal document that directs how your property is distributed when you pass away.

• Must be signed and witnessed correctly.
• Does not avoid probate.
• Allows you to name a guardian for minor children.
• Often paired with a trust as a 'pour-over will.'

Trusts in California

A living trust (revocable trust) is the most common tool to avoid probate. It allows you to manage your assets during life and transfer them privately after death.

• Avoids probate and its costs.
• Maintains privacy (unlike a will, which becomes public).
• Provides continuity if you become incapacitated.
• Can be customized for blended families, special needs planning, or tax efficiency.

Updating Your Plan

Life changes — and so should your estate plan. We recommend reviewing your will or trust every 3–5 years, or sooner if you:

• Get married or divorced
• Have children or grandchildren
• Buy or sell real estate
• Receive an inheritance
• Experience major financial or health changes

Why Work With an Attorney?

Do-it-yourself forms often lead to costly mistakes, such as unfunded trusts or invalid wills. An experienced estate planning attorney helps ensure your documents are properly drafted, signed, and funded, so your plan works when it’s needed most.

How We Can Help

• Drafting wills and trusts
• Trust funding and administration
• Guardianship planning for minors
• Special needs trusts
• Probate avoidance strategies
• Estate plan reviews and updates

Take the Next Step

Planning for the future brings peace of mind today. Contact us to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help create a will or trust that fits your needs.