What happens when a business owner dies? Is it possible to salvage the business on behalf of the heirs? What about the intent of the…
You Can Open California Probate Without an Attorney
California courts permit people just like you to open probate without an attorney. The probate process can be daunting for those struggling with losing a…
When must a California landlord use a 90-day notice?
Tenants may provide notice of termination on a much shorter time period than landlords. For tenants who have not yet resided at the residence for…
Why I Would Never Draft a Will.
I get the question frequently: “Can you please draft my will?” The answer is, “no.” But here is why. Estate Plans I draft estate plans.…
Subrogation and Tax Liens
A friend asked me last week, can a person record a lien against real property if they have paid the past due taxes? There might…
Removing a Bad Trustee
People select Trustees to handle the trust’s affairs after they pass on, but sometimes they die without knowing that the Trustee was a bad choice.…
Compelling a Trust Accounting When the Trust Waives Accountings
A trust declaration may waive periodic accountings. But how does a beneficiary prevent the trustee from stealing the trust’s assets and using it as a…
Selling the Family Home After a Loved One Passes Away
It’s common for people to feel sentimental about the family home, especially if they have fond memories of growing up there. However, it’s important to…
Conservatorship: The Basics
I don’t often have conservatorship consultations, but I saw that later this week, somebody booked me to talk about conservatorship and whether it is the…
The Tale of the Secret Probate: a Dispute over $1 million
What happens when someone opens and closes probate in secret? What follows is based on fact, but at the time of this article, I do…