There is a very good chance that you will be asked to a sign a Power of Attorney at some point, if you have not yet done so. Although many people are familiar with the general idea behind a Power of Attorney, these documents are among the most misunderstood and misused tools in estate planning. Because of that, it is essential to understand what you are signing before you put pen to paper. To help provide clarity, the Los Angeles attorneys at Schomer Law Group, APC explain some of the key points … [Read more...] about What You Should Know about a California Power of Attorney
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What Is the Difference Between a Beneficiary and an Heir?
Estate planning involves a variety of legal terms that can be confusing, even for those who have begun the planning process. Two words that often cause misunderstanding are “beneficiary” and “heir.” While both refer to individuals who may receive assets from someone who has passed away, the legal basis for their entitlement differs significantly. To clarify the distinction, the Los Angeles attorneys at Schomer Law Group, APC explain how heirs and beneficiaries are defined under California law … [Read more...] about What Is the Difference Between a Beneficiary and an Heir?
Funeral Planning Mistakes to Avoid in Your California Estate Plan
Addressing funeral and burial arrangements is one of the most meaningful parts of creating a comprehensive estate plan. While few people enjoy discussing their final wishes, taking the time to plan ahead can bring peace of mind and prevent unnecessary hardship for loved ones. A complete estate plan should not only direct how assets are distributed but also outline how you want your life to be honored and remembered. Unfortunately, many people overlook this step, leaving their families uncertain … [Read more...] about Funeral Planning Mistakes to Avoid in Your California Estate Plan
How Much Authority Should a Trustee Have?
Including a trust in a carefully designed estate plan is a common strategy for protecting wealth and providing for loved ones. When drafting the trust agreement, one of the most important choices you will make involves determining the level of authority, or discretion, that your Trustee will hold. Because the Trustee is responsible for carrying out your instructions and managing trust property, the extent of that authority can greatly influence how effective the trust will be in meeting your … [Read more...] about How Much Authority Should a Trustee Have?
Steps to Take to Discourage a California Will Contest
Drafting a Last Will and Testament provides you with the ability to control what happens to your property after your death. The terms you include in your Will are intended to be legally enforceable, and once a California court has authenticated the document, the Executor must carry out those instructions. Despite this, the probate process allows an “interested party” to challenge the validity of a Will. A Will contest can delay probate for months, consume significant estate assets in legal fees, … [Read more...] about Steps to Take to Discourage a California Will Contest
How Does the OBBBA Affect My California ABLE Account?
On July 4, 2025, Congress passed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), a far-reaching legislative reform that reshaped federal tax and transfer rules. While much attention has been directed at revisions to estate and gift tax laws, the measure also introduced important changes to ABLE accounts. For Californians living with disabilities and their families, these provisions influence how accounts are created, funded, and used. To clarify what the new law means, the Los Angeles attorneys at … [Read more...] about How Does the OBBBA Affect My California ABLE Account?
Can I Modify the Terms of My Trust Agreement in California?
As your estate plan develops, you may decide to incorporate a trust to help you achieve important financial and legacy goals. Trusts are powerful tools because they provide flexibility, privacy, and control over how your assets are managed and distributed. The circumstances of your life, however, are unlikely to remain static. Family dynamics may change, your finances will undoubtedly evolve, and personal wishes could shift with time. At some point, you may wonder whether you can make changes to … [Read more...] about Can I Modify the Terms of My Trust Agreement in California?
Preparing for FinCEN Real Estate Reporting
Although the Corporate Transparency Act’s Beneficial Ownership Information reports no longer apply to domestic entities due to their exemption, another FinCEN requirement is moving full steam ahead, and estate planning attorneys should not overlook it. Starting December 1, 2025, professionals involved in real estate closings and settlements will be required to submit reports to FinCEN for certain non-financed transfers of residential property to legal entities or trusts. Continue reading to … [Read more...] about Preparing for FinCEN Real Estate Reporting
Is Estate Planning Only for the Wealthy?
A common misunderstanding about estate planning is that it serves only the wealthy or those with extensive assets. This misconception is one of the leading reasons many adults delay creating a plan. Estate planning is not about meeting a financial threshold but about protecting your future, your family, and your wishes. To highlight why it is essential for people of all income levels, the Los Angeles attorneys at Schomer Law Group, APC discusses the importance of estate planning whether you are … [Read more...] about Is Estate Planning Only for the Wealthy?
What Football and Estate Planning Have in Common
I, like many Americans, love football. As I settled in to watch my team’s game this week, I wondered if I could turn it into a blog. As I watched, I realized, in fact, football and Estate Planning share many commonalities. Continue reading to learn more. … [Read more...] about What Football and Estate Planning Have in Common
