by Santiago Olivares | Jun 17, 2026 | Estate Planning, wills, California, Usa, Attorney, Guardianship, trustee
When choosing a guardian for your child, most parents focus on selecting the right person. However, many overlook important details that can create confusion or legal complications if something unexpected happens. Common mistakes include naming only long-term... 
by Santiago Olivares | Jun 10, 2026 | Estate Planning, California, Usa, Consultation, Living Trust, Inheritance, mistakes, crisis, emergency, trustee, Medi-Cal
Many California families fear that Medi-Cal benefits could result in the loss of a family home after a loved one passes away. The good news is that California significantly limited Medi-Cal estate recovery in recent years. However, homeowners should still understand... 
by Santiago Olivares | Jun 10, 2026 | Estate Planning, California, Usa, Revocable, Living Trust, Living Will, Guardianship, Inheritance, trustee, Conservatorship, Pet
Pets are often considered family, but under California law they are legally classified as property. If you’re wondering what happens to pets in a will, the answer depends on the instructions you leave behind. A will can name a caregiver, but it may not provide... 
by Santiago Olivares | Jun 10, 2026 | Estate Planning, California, Usa, Living Trust, Living Will, Guardianship, illness, Elder, Inheritance, beneficiary designations, crisis, trustee, Conservatorship
When families begin noticing signs of parent cognitive decline, waiting too long to plan can create legal, financial, and emotional challenges. Adult children can help protect aging parents by encouraging early estate planning, updating powers of attorney, reviewing... 
by Crista Hermance | Jun 3, 2026 | Estate Planning, Parenting, beneficiary designations, mistakes, trustee, Trust
One of the most common estate planning mistakes parents make is adding their oldest child to a bank account for convenience. While it may seem like a simple solution, this decision can unintentionally disinherit other children, create inheritance disputes, and lead to... 
by Crista Hermance | Mar 25, 2026 | Estate Planning, Parenting, Assets, Marriage Planning, Inheritance, trustee
Leaving an unequal inheritance in California is legal—but it can create family conflict if not handled carefully. With the right planning, communication, and legal structure, families in Ventura County and across Southern California can divide assets intentionally...
