by Ivonn Ayala | Sep 19, 2025 | Inheritance, Assets, Planning, Process
Dividing inheritance between biological children and stepchildren is one of the most challenging parts of estate planning for blended families. California law does not automatically grant inheritance rights to stepchildren unless they are legally adopted or named in... 
by Crista Hermance | Jul 9, 2025 | Assets, Marriage Planning, Collaborative, Living Trust
Second marriages create unique estate issues. California’s omitted spouse rules can upend older plans, and stepchildren don’t inherit by default unless you name them. The most reliable path is a revocable living trust that balances support for your new spouse and... 
by Crista Hermance | Jun 20, 2025 | Estate Planning, taxes, Assets, tax, Living Trust, California
If you’ve recently inherited property in Ventura, CA, you’re probably wondering what taxes apply. Here’s the short version: California does not have an inheritance or estate tax. Federal estate tax only applies to very large estates (over $13 million in 2024). Capital...
