The best Estate Planners stay current on the latest trends. The American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys held its semi-annual conference providing education on selected topics designed to inspire excellence in its Members. Read on to learn more about the unique experience at the Fall Summit 2024 Conference. … [Read more...] about Bridging the Past and Future
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Maximizing Your Yearly Exclusion Before Year’s End
As we reach the end of 2024, many of us are contemplating holiday gifts for family, friends, and charities. While doing so, it is wise to consider making use of the yearly exclusion for estate tax purposes as well. Also referred to as the annual “gift tax exclusion,” the yearly exclusion allows you to make gifts valued at up to $18,000 (as of 2024) each year to as many recipients as you wish without triggering federal gift taxes or using any of your lifetime estate and gift tax exemption. The … [Read more...] about Maximizing Your Yearly Exclusion Before Year’s End
How Families Can Honor Their Veterans: Preserving Legacies Through Estate Planning
On Veterans Day, we honor the courageous men and women who have served our country. Across Los Angeles, families gather to celebrate these heroes, recognizing not only their dedication but also the impact they've made on our lives and freedoms. With over 250,000 veterans currently residing in Los Angeles County, the importance of preserving their legacies and sharing their stories is more pertinent than many communities may realize. Creating an estate plan is one of the most meaningful ways … [Read more...] about How Families Can Honor Their Veterans: Preserving Legacies Through Estate Planning
7 Estate Planning Mistakes and How to Avoid Making Them
Having a well-drafted and comprehensive estate plan in place is one of the most meaningful gifts you can give to your loved ones and to yourself. Given the complex nature of estate planning, it can be easy to make mistakes that can prevent your plan from working as intended. Working with an experienced estate planning attorney is always the best way to prevent making mistakes. In addition, the Los Angeles attorneys at Schomer Estate & Wealth Advisors discuss seven common estate planning mistakes … [Read more...] about 7 Estate Planning Mistakes and How to Avoid Making Them
Preparing for “The Big One” — Estate Planning in Los Angeles
Creating an estate plan in Los Angeles is as essential as keeping an emergency kit ready. An effective estate plan protects your loved ones from legal battles and high probate costs, which can destabilize your family and deplete estate assets. Just as you secure your home against damage, preparing your estate ensures that your legacy remains safe from costly and time-consuming challenges. The Importance of Earthquake Preparedness Living in Los Angeles, you constantly hear about “The Big … [Read more...] about Preparing for “The Big One” — Estate Planning in Los Angeles
Pumpkin Kisses and Harvest Wishes
As the spooky season transitions into the season of Thanksgiving, it’s important to remember our why. Most of us do what we do for our families and loved ones. As the holiday season approaches, do something that will have a lasting impact on your family. Create a comprehensive Estate Plan. Make sure that you take the time to consult a qualified Estate Planning attorney who can provide advice regarding all the elements necessary to complete your plan. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about Pumpkin Kisses and Harvest Wishes
Winter Probate Delays: How the Holidays Affect the Probate Process
As we approach the holiday season, many individuals may not realize how this time of year can impact the probate process. While the holidays are a time for celebration, they can also introduce unique challenges and delays for families navigating the complexities of probate. Here’s what you need to know about the seasonal impacts on court schedules and probate timelines. 1. Court Closures and Reduced Hours During the holiday season, many probate courts have altered hours or are closed … [Read more...] about Winter Probate Delays: How the Holidays Affect the Probate Process
Common Probate Missteps to Avoid Before the New Year
As the year winds down, many individuals and families turn their focus to estate planning and ensuring that their affairs are in order for the upcoming year. However, it's crucial to avoid common missteps that can complicate the probate process for your loved ones. Here are some key mistakes to watch out for as you prepare for the New Year. 1. Neglecting to Update Your Will and Estate Plan One of the most significant mistakes is failing to update your will and estate plan to reflect … [Read more...] about Common Probate Missteps to Avoid Before the New Year
Year-End Estate Planning: How to Avoid Probate in 2025
As 2024 draws to a close, many individuals and families turn their attention to estate planning. With the start of a new year comes an opportunity to reevaluate your estate plan and ensure your assets are protected while avoiding the probate process. Probate can be a lengthy, expensive, and public process, which is why proactive estate planning is essential. Here are key steps you can take to minimize the risk of probate in 2025. 1. Understand the Probate Process Before you can avoid … [Read more...] about Year-End Estate Planning: How to Avoid Probate in 2025
How to Prepare for Probate During the Holiday Season
The holiday season brings joy and celebration, but it can also add a layer of complexity for executors managing probate. Balancing holiday obligations while navigating the legalities of probate can be challenging. Here’s how to effectively prepare for probate during this busy time of year. 1. Understand the Probate Process First and foremost, familiarize yourself with the probate process. Probate involves validating the deceased’s will, settling debts, and distributing assets to … [Read more...] about How to Prepare for Probate During the Holiday Season










