When one child occupies a position of trust with a parent to the exclusion of other siblings, that causes friction. Extending that position of power after death exacerbates that friction and may cause irreparable harm. It seems that happened upon the death of beloved singer, Tony Bennett. His daughters have sued their brother on two different occasions leveling some unflattering allegations. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about The Big Lesson from Tony Bennett’s Embattled Estate and Troubled Trust
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A Hole in Hackman’s Plan
Eugene Allen Hackman enjoyed a prolific acting career that spanned several decades. In a bizarre sequence of events, seemingly ripped from a movie script, his death raised questions and exposed some flaws in both his end-of-life planning and his Estate Plan. Gene’s final act didn’t result in a happy ending, but rather a tragic tale full of warnings to those who care to listen. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about A Hole in Hackman’s Plan
When a Trustee Becomes a Problem: What Can a Beneficiary Do in California?
Sometimes a trust that was meant to simplify the distribution of assets after a death ends up causing frustration or conflict, especially when the Trustee and beneficiaries are not on the same page. As a beneficiary, you may find yourself questioning whether the Trustee is handling the trust appropriately. While some friction can be chalked up to misunderstandings or differences in expectations, there are also situations where a Trustee’s actions, or inaction, can justify intervention. If you … [Read more...] about When a Trustee Becomes a Problem: What Can a Beneficiary Do in California?
Maintaining Privacy in Your California Estate Plan
Many individuals turn to estate planning to control the distribution of their assets after death. A primary tool in most estate plans is the Last Will and Testament. While a Will is a valid and useful instrument, especially early in life or for relatively simple estates, it has limitations. One such limitation is the lack of confidentiality. As your estate grows more complex, or as privacy becomes a greater concern, you may want to consider expanding your estate plan to include a trust. A … [Read more...] about Maintaining Privacy in Your California Estate Plan
Tips for Unpaid Caregivers
Millions of Americans provide unpaid care to family members or loved ones each year. Although you may see caregiving as simply part of your role as a spouse, child, or friend, the reality is that it often comes with physical, emotional, and financial strain. If you are among the roughly 50 million people offering unpaid care in the United States, it is essential to recognize that your well-being directly impacts your ability to provide care over time. With that in mind, the Los Angeles attorneys … [Read more...] about Tips for Unpaid Caregivers
Can I Disinherit My Spouse in California?
Creating an estate plan allows you to determine who will inherit your assets when you pass away. Many people use a Last Will and Testament to specify how their estate will be distributed. In most cases, a married individual leaves some or all their assets to their spouse. However, what if you want to exclude your spouse from your Will entirely? Can you legally disinherit your spouse in California? The Los Angeles attorneys at Schomer Estate & Wealth Advisors discuss why it is not always simple … [Read more...] about Can I Disinherit My Spouse in California?
Five Reasons to Create an Estate Plan Right Now
People often procrastinate when it comes to creating an estate plan because they believe that the need for an estate plan is directly related to wealth or old age. Estate planning, however, is beneficial for individuals and families at all stages of life and without regard to the value of their estate. If you have assets, responsibilities, or people you care about, then you have a reason to create an estate plan in place. With that in mind, the Los Angeles attorneys at Schomer Estate & Wealth … [Read more...] about Five Reasons to Create an Estate Plan Right Now
Flip the Script on Aging for Older Americans Month
Each May, the nation honors Older Americans Month, a time to recognize the invaluable role older adults play in society and address issues affecting aging populations. The 2025 theme, "Flip the Script on Aging," challenges outdated views and encourages a fresh perspective on growing older. This initiative urges individuals and communities to rethink societal attitudes, fostering a more inclusive and empowering approach to aging. The Los Angeles attorneys at Schomer Estate & Wealth Advisors … [Read more...] about Flip the Script on Aging for Older Americans Month
Are Irrevocable Trusts Really Irrevocable – Part III
When I began practicing law, clients created irrevocable trusts with caution because the trust was then set in stone. By the time I left private practice, clients created irrevocable trusts with more frequency and considerably less caution because changing irrevocable trusts became commonplace. Trusts and Estate practitioners have several mechanisms that allow them to change an irrevocable trust. The first part of this three-part series explored changes to irrevocable trusts using judicial or … [Read more...] about Are Irrevocable Trusts Really Irrevocable – Part III
A Message from the Murdochs – Part II
As a reformed Trusts and Estates attorney, I have an unusual fascination with celebrity estates, especially those gone wrong. Using those estates as instructive lessons regarding how to avoid disaster has provided many a topic for this blog. I often discuss the benefits of creating and reviewing an Estate Plan regularly. Simply put, none of us should leave our legacy to chance. Not long ago, I wrote about the Murdoch family and the latest drama surrounding them in A Message from the Murdochs. … [Read more...] about A Message from the Murdochs – Part II
