by Crista Hermance | Oct 12, 2026 | Trust, Probate, Living Trust, California, Estate Planning
The difference between trust administration vs probate often comes down to how assets were owned and whether a properly funded trust was in place. Probate is a court-supervised process, while trust administration typically occurs outside of court. Both involve... 
by Crista Hermance | Oct 12, 2026 | Probate, California, Estate Planning, Trust
Estate planning is not just for wealthy families. Whether you own a home, have children, maintain retirement accounts, or simply want your wishes respected, a comprehensive estate plan can provide valuable protection. For Ventura County families, a well-designed plan... 
by Crista Hermance | Oct 12, 2026 | California, Estate Planning
When a child turns 18, parents no longer automatically have the legal authority to access medical records, manage finances, or make certain decisions on their child’s behalf. Fortunately, a few simple legal documents can help families prepare for emergencies and... 
by Crista Hermance | Oct 7, 2026 | Trust administration, Inheritance, California, Estate Planning
Many beneficiaries worry they must immediately report an inheritance to the IRS. In most cases, inherited cash, property, and investments are not treated as taxable income simply because they were inherited. However, certain situations can trigger reporting... 
by Crista Hermance | Oct 6, 2026 | Trust, Inheritance, Living Trust, California, Estate Planning
Many beneficiaries wonder whether they can require a trustee to distribute assets immediately after a loved one’s death. In California, the answer depends on the circumstances. Trustees have legal duties that must often be completed before distributions occur.... 
by Crista Hermance | Oct 6, 2026 | Trust, Living Trust, Trust administration, California, Estate Planning
A trustee has important legal duties during trust administration, including providing certain information to beneficiaries. If a trustee is not communicating with beneficiaries, that does not automatically mean wrongdoing has occurred. However, prolonged silence,...
