You probably understand that planning for the future matters, but misinformation can interfere with taking the right steps. Estate planning is surrounded by persistent myths that create confusion about who needs a plan, what documents accomplish, and how assets actually transfer at death. When you rely on inaccurate assumptions, you risk leaving your family with court involvement, delays, and unintended financial consequences. By separating fact from fiction, you place yourself in a stronger … [Read more...] about Estate Planning Myths
Estate Planning
Trustee Selection: Why It Matters and How to Get It Right
Selecting a trustee is one of the most important—and most misunderstood—decisions in Estate Planning. While many individuals focus on who will receive their assets and how those assets will be distributed, far fewer consider the impact the Trustee will have on the management and distribution of those assets. This article explores why trustee selection matters, common pitfalls that lead to conflict and litigation, and how thoughtful planning can help preserve both family harmony and a lasting … [Read more...] about Trustee Selection: Why It Matters and How to Get It Right
What You Can Do to Support Your Estate Planning Attorney
Many people recognize the importance of having a well-structured estate plan, but a large percentage of Americans still have not taken that step. One commonly cited reason is that estate planning feels overwhelming or uncomfortable. The process often involves sensitive family matters, financial details, and long-term decisions that are not easy to confront. The reassuring reality is that working with an experienced estate planning attorney makes the process far more manageable. A knowledgeable … [Read more...] about What You Can Do to Support Your Estate Planning Attorney
The Seedier Side of the Holidays
Scammers will use any leverage possible to separate you from your money. This includes preying upon a grandparent’s love and concern for their grandchildren. The so-called grandparent scams are among the most popular scams targeting the elderly and rely upon details gleaned from social media sites to make the call seem realistic. It’s important to recognize the signs of potential scams and understand how to guard against them. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about The Seedier Side of the Holidays
Tax Planning for 2025 and Beyond
Planning is important for your income taxation during life as well as for any estate taxes at death. With year-end approaching, it is an ideal time to begin planning for the year ahead. As Benjamin Franklin said: “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about Tax Planning for 2025 and Beyond
Balancing Efficiency and Excellence: The Perils of Boilerplate in a Busy Estate Planning Practice
The past few years have brought more people than ever to the world of Estate Planning. Whether prompted by global uncertainty, changes in tax law, or a desire for peace of mind, families and individuals are eager to put their affairs in order. At the same time, attorneys have worked tirelessly to meet that demand—often managing more clients and cases than ever before. With this increased volume, efficiency has become essential. But in the rush to serve everyone well, it’s important not to … [Read more...] about Balancing Efficiency and Excellence: The Perils of Boilerplate in a Busy Estate Planning Practice
10 Reasons You Might Need a California Estate Planning Attorney
Estate planning can seem unfamiliar or even intimidating to many people, which often leads individuals to underestimate the wide range of situations in which a knowledgeable attorney can provide guidance. Overlooking the moments when professional support is needed may create unnecessary expenses or put loved ones at risk. To help you better understand how an attorney can assist throughout different stages of life, the Los Angeles attorneys at Schomer Law Group, APC discuss 10 reasons why you … [Read more...] about 10 Reasons You Might Need a California Estate Planning Attorney
7 Steps to Take When Planning for a Medical Procedure
Keeping an estate plan current is one of the most meaningful ways to safeguard your interests and ease the burden on your loved ones. Circumstances change over time, and without periodic updates, your estate plan can quickly fall out of step with your goals. Certain moments make updating especially important, including before undergoing a medical procedure. Whether it is a simple outpatient treatment or a major surgery, reviewing your plan beforehand can bring reassurance and ensure your choices … [Read more...] about 7 Steps to Take When Planning for a Medical Procedure
Don’t Be a Turkey or a Ham- Take Advantage of Your Annual per Donee Exclusion Amount
The holidays are a great time to review the past year and make plans for the upcoming one. Part of those plans should be reviewing your Estate Plan and considering what, if any, steps you should take to help you achieve your goals. One of the easiest, but most overlooked, ways to do some quick planning is to take advantage of the annual per donee exclusion amount which can have a tremendous impact on reducing the estate without use of the applicable exclusion amount. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about Don’t Be a Turkey or a Ham- Take Advantage of Your Annual per Donee Exclusion Amount
5 Benefits of Including Charitable Giving in Your California Estate Plan
For many people, supporting charitable causes is more than a financial decision. It is a reflection of deeply held values and beliefs. If philanthropy has played a meaningful role in your life, you may wish to ensure that your generosity continues long after you are gone. Including charitable giving as part of your estate plan allows you to make a lasting impact while also providing valuable financial and tax benefits for you and your loved ones. Toward that end, the Los Angeles attorneys at … [Read more...] about 5 Benefits of Including Charitable Giving in Your California Estate Plan
