by Santiago Olivares | Sep 23, 2026 | Estate Planning, wills, Trust
Many homeowners ask,”Do I need a trust or just a will?” In California, a will alone often does not avoid probate. For many Westlake Village homeowners, a living trust, durable power of attorney, and advance healthcare directive provide greater protection,... 
by Crista Hermance | Feb 25, 2026 | Estate Planning, California, Usa, Attorney, Parenting, tax, Divorce, Planning, Marriage Planning, beneficiary designations, taxes, funding, Co-ownership
Many California parents consider adding their child to their home title to avoid probate. However, this strategy can trigger property tax reassessment, expose the home to your child’s creditors or divorce, complicate Medi-Cal planning, and create capital gains tax... 
by Crista Hermance | Feb 25, 2026 | Estate Planning, Attorney, Trust administration, Living Trust, Living Will, Probate, Transfer, executor, Inheritance, taxes, trustee
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 | Jan 12, 2026 | Estate Planning, California, Consultation, Probate, trustee
Doing nothing is the most expensive estate plan in California. Families who skip estate planning often face probate court, attorney fees, court costs, delays lasting 12–24 months, public proceedings, and potential family conflict. A properly designed estate plan... 
by Crista Hermance | Jul 21, 2025 | Living Trust, Planning, Assets
A revocable living trust keeps your home and other assets out of California probate, saving time, money, and stress. You keep control during life; your successor trustee handles a fast, private transfer to your beneficiaries after death. For Ventura families—where...
