by Crista Hermance | May 11, 2026 | Trust, Business, beneficiary designations, Inheritance, Transfer, California, Estate Planning
High net worth estate planning involves far more than creating a simple will or trust. Families in Ventura County and across Southern California often face unique risks involving real estate, taxes, business ownership, lawsuits, and generational wealth transfer.... 
by Crista Hermance | Mar 17, 2026 | beneficiary designations, Inheritance, Marriage Planning, Assets, Transfer, Attorney, Estate Planning
In disinherit-spousal situations in California, the answer is not simple. California law gives spouses strong rights—especially over community property—making it difficult to disinherit them fully. However, with proper estate planning strategies, it may be possible to... 
by Crista Hermance | Feb 25, 2026 | Estate Planning, trustee, taxes, Inheritance, executor, Transfer, Probate, Living Will, Living Trust, Trust administration, Attorney
If you own real estate in more than one state, your family may face multiple probate proceedings, including something called ancillary probate. This process can increase court costs, delay distributions, and create administrative headaches. The most effective way to... 
by Crista Hermance | Feb 10, 2026 | trustee, beneficiary designations, Inheritance, executor, Cohabitating, Marriage Planning, Usa, Planning, court, Blended Families, Transfer, Probate, Living Will, Living Trust, Parenting, Trust administration, Consultation, Attorney, California, Estate Planning
Naming adult children as successor trustees can simplify trust administration and keep decisions within the family. However, it can also create conflict, delay, and legal risk if family dynamics, experience, or asset complexity are ignored. California families should... 
by Crista Hermance | Feb 5, 2026 | Living Trust, executor, Holiday, Cohabitating, Marriage Planning, Assets, Divorce, Parenting Featured, Blended Families, Transfer, Probate, Living Will, crisis, Parenting, Attorney, wills, Estate Planning, 2026, unmarried, funding, trustee
Estate planning isn’t just paperwork — it’s one of the most practical ways married couples protect each other. This Valentine’s Day, California spouses should review key legal decisions that affect health care, finances, property, and legacy. Why Valentine’s Day Is a... 
by Crista Hermance | Jun 11, 2025 | Transfer, Probate, Living Trust, Revocable
Estate planning isn’t only about setting up your ideal future — it’s about preparing for what happens if life doesn’t go as planned. Contingent beneficiaries, backup trustees, and alternate agents ensure your plan still works if your first choices can’t. Without... 
