Without a trust, probate is inevitable in California. That said, there are some probate alternatives. These alternatives to probate, if available, can transfer property in a decedent’s estate quicker and cheaper than a full, formal probate.

Estate planning is often put on the back-burner. Sometimes people never get around to it. However, planning ahead is important because doing so can save you thousands and thousands of dollars.

If you're thinking about forming a limited liability company or you have already done so, you likely have asked yourself, "Should I form my limited liability company in Delaware or California?" The answer to this question is almost always "it depends," but understanding the basics of the analysis is helpful.

What is asset protection and how can it protect me and my beneficiaries from the claims of creditors? Put simply, asset protection is positioning your property in such a way so it is not subject to the claims of plaintiffs in lawsuits.

Failing to make sure your estate planning is coordinated with your retirement planning can have serious adverse effects on your estate and its beneficiaries. At worst, you’re looking at a 50% excise tax staring you in the face.

The cost of an estate plan is much lower than you think. Being a California resident, you likely know that it takes little more than a house with a mortgage and a checking account to to approach an estate value at more than $500,000.