Professional Estate Planning Attorney In Ontario, California
When the time comes, the best gift you can leave your loved ones is a thoughtful, thorough estate plan with a Will or a Living Trust. This is an essential part of life in California. If you do not create your own plan, the government and courts will decide how your assets will be divided. On the other hand, drafting your own estate plan with a Will or Living Trust can help protect your family, your assets, and your future wishes. Creating a plan early can give you peace of mind and security. Even creating a plan for an urgent family matter can help clarify things and save time, money and stress. The Law Office of Curtis R. Aijala, APLC, can help you create an estate plan that truly helps your family and secures your assets and legacy.
Decisions you make when preparing an estate with a Will or a Living Trust matter. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to estate planning. That is why the Law Office of Curtis R. Aijala, APLC, helps you personalize your plan to fit your family’s unique circumstances and needs. The office will help you create a plan that suits your family.
The Law Office of Curtis R. Aijala, APLC’s staff is Spanish Speaking.
One of the first things you need to do when considering your estate plan is to make a list of what you own, consider your future wishes, and consult with an attorney. Your attorney can give you further insight into what goes into a well-executed estate plan. It can help you determine if the plan makes sense and achieves your goals. In general, this plan should consist of a Will or a Living Trust, Power of Attorney (to give decision-making authority over health and financial decisions if you are incapacitated), Advanced Directives (to give guidance for your end-of-life decisions or wishes while incapacitated).
Your will outlines your wishes after you die. It often consists of a list of your assets, beneficiaries, and states to whom your assets are to be given. It can also outline care instructions and name a guardian for your children. This is an essential part of an estate plan. However, many people prefer a Trust instead of a Will in their estate plan. This type of estate planning tool allows for more privacy and control over your assets. An estate planning attorney can provide more insight and advice into these documents.
Frequently Asked Questions About Estate Planning
Below are some frequently asked questions about estate planning to help you get started with creating a plan that fits your unique needs.
How do I start the estate planning process?
The first step in estate planning is to make a list of your assets and any important personal and financial information. After you have this list, it’s crucial to consider your future wishes – how you want your assets distributed, who you want to make decisions on your behalf and any care instructions for loved ones. From there, schedule a consultation with an experienced estate planning attorney. At NLaw Office of Curtis R. Aijala, APLC, we can guide you through every step of this process and tailor your plan to your specific needs.
What assets should be included in my estate plan?
Your estate plan should include all your significant assets. This may include real estate properties, bank accounts, investment accounts, retirement savings, vehicles and personal belongings of high value (such as jewelry or artwork). Additionally, it’s important to account for digital assets (such as online accounts, photos and intellectual property). A comprehensive estate plan helps ensure that these assets are protected and transferred according to your wishes.
What happens if I die without a will or living trust in California?
If you pass away without a will or living trust in California, your estate will go through a legal process called probate. During probate, the courts will decide how your assets are distributed based on California’s intestacy laws. This means that the division of your estate may not reflect your personal wishes. Probate can be time-consuming and costly for your loved ones, so having a well-crafted will or trust in place can help avoid these complications.
What are advanced directives and why are they important?
Advanced directives are legal documents that outline your preferences for medical care if you are unable to communicate your wishes due to illness or incapacity. This can include decisions about life support, resuscitation and other end-of-life care. Advanced directives are essential because they provide clear instructions to your loved ones and health care providers, reducing stress during difficult times and making sure that your medical care aligns with your values and desires.
Get More Information From A Lawyer
The Law Office of Curtis R. Aijala, APLC, can help you make a plan that creates security and peace of mind. Contact them to get more information today. Call 909-983-0877 or use the online contact form to set up a free case assessment. Law Office of Curtis R. Aijala, APLC, also provide their client-focused services in Spanish.