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A big concern for most of us is how to financially manage to stay at home as we age, despite ever increasing care needs.  For those that are fortunate enough to have adequate savings, care costs may not be much of a concern.  However, care costs are quite high, with average hourly rates around $25 …

Do you ever wonder how attorneys keep current on the law and consider unique and difficult issues? All California attorneys have to take a certain number of continuing education classes and report those units to the State Bar.  We attend various seminars to complete the required units and typically have hundreds of hours of classes …

We all know we live in an increasingly digital world, but have you ever given any thought to how your loved ones would access digital assets if you become incapacitated or pass away? Digital Assets covers a broad range of assets and accounts.  Do you have on line access only to a bank or investment …

As part of an estate administration, it is typical to use a small estate affidavit to claim assets that may have not been titled in the name of a trust, or assets which were “lost or forgotten” by the family.  Previously we were limited in the usefulness of this process, as the asset limit for …

Being an elder law attorney, I spend my days advising clients on various aspects of elder law.   However, when the tables are turned and I found myself in the position that many clients find themselves in, it is nice to experience firsthand what resources are available and the help that can be provided. I recently …

People sometimes ask me: What is the most difficult part of my job when advising clients on post death administration matters?  Surprisingly, that often is the division of tangible personal property, or the “stuff” in the home. Unlike cash or other financial assets which can typically be easily divided between the children, tangible items are …

We recognize that this is a very difficult time for you and your family having just lost a loved one.  The process to administer an estate after a loved one dies can seem overwhelming.  For some clients, the stress of meeting with the attorney shortly after the passing is too much.  For others, they feel …

I was fortunate enough to recently attend a seminar featuring Natalie Choate, one of the foremost nationwide experts on retirement benefits Ataxplan Publications.  Having heard Ms. Choate speak numerous times, I am always amazed how she manages to keep the topic of retirement benefits fresh and timely. While the seminar confirmed many estate planning and tax …