Don't underestimate the value of your estate--it includes your house, furniture, furnishings, stocks, bonds, bank accounts, jewelry, car, computer--everything you own. By setting forth an estate plan now, you can avoid having the State decide who will receive your property. And, if your estate is worth more than $2,000,000, you can reduce federal estate taxes due upon your death.

Most people use a will or revocable living trust to implement their Estate Plan, but these, however, are not the only documents encompassed within such a plan. For the most part, these documents deal with the distribution of your property at death. Today, many people realize they could experience a period of incapacity prior to death that would require a third party to manage their financial affairs or medical decisions.

Without proper planning, the only alternative would be a court-supervised conservatorship proceeding. Your family and friends will avoid unnecessary grief and expense if you layout an Estate Plan in advance.

RECENT SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS
Santa Clarita Valley Bar Association - June, 2008


Recent articles published on this topic:

* How to Make It Less Likely that Anyone Will Contest Your Will
SCV Signal - "It's the Law", July 4, 2008
* New Developments in Capital Gain, Property Taxes
The Magazine of Santa Clarita - June 2008 and
SCV Signal - "Its the Law" - June 13, 2008
*Donating Your Body To Science After Death
The Magazine of Santa Clarita - March 2008
* Planning For Your Pet's Welfare
The Magazine of Santa Clarita - February 2008
*Rights of Cohabitating Seniors
Santa Clarita Valley Signal - November 16, 2007
*Communication is the Key in Locating Estate Documents and Passwords
The Magazine of Santa Clarita Valley - November, 2007
*Adopting Transfer on Death Deeds
Santa Clarita Valley Signal - 09-15-2006
*Good Samaritans - Beware of the Law
Santa Clarita Valley Signal - 9-01-2006

The information here is presented as a guide. Please consult an attorney for specific advice.