Financial elder abuse is a growing and deeply troubling problem in California. Every day, hundreds—if not thousands—of elders fall victim to exploitation. Even more disturbing is that the perpetrators are often family members or close friends—people the elder trusts the most. Financial exploitation can take many forms, from outright theft to subtle manipulation of legal […]
In California, when someone creates a will or trust and later gets married without updating those documents, the surviving spouse may still have a legal right to inherit. This right is granted under California’s omitted spouse laws, which essentially “force” an amendment to the estate plan, entitling the surviving spouse to a share of the […]
One of the most painful and unfortunately common situations we see in California trust litigation is when a child, often a son or daughter, is appointed as trustee over their aging parents’ trust and then uses that position for their own personal gain. What begins as a role of trust and responsibility often ends in […]
In California probate and trust litigation, few issues stir up more confusion and litigation than the rights of a surviving spouse who is left out of a will or trust. These individuals are often referred to as “omitted spouses,” and the law generally provides them with a share of the estate. But not always. This […]
When news surfaced of conflict within the late Jimmy Buffett’s $275 million estate, we were already preparing a video. The story had all the markers of a high-stakes trust dispute: a surviving spouse raising concerns, a professional trustee under scrutiny, and adult children with major assets on the line. It’s exactly the kind of complex […]
If you’re receiving an inheritance through a trust or a will, you might wonder whether hiring a lawyer is necessary. The short answer is: it depends on your situation. In addition to this blog, watch our video dicussing whether or not you may need to hire or at least consult a probate attorney. When You Don’t Need […]
Can a Trustee Face Criminal Charges in California? Trustees in California have significant responsibilities. They are legally obligated to follow the terms of the trust and act in the best interests of the beneficiaries. When they fail to meet those duties, beneficiaries can bring a lawsuit for breach of fiduciary duty. But what about criminal […]
If you’re a beneficiary involved in a dispute over a trust or will, consulting with an attorney is an essential first step. The good news? Many trust and estate attorneys offer free consultations to evaluate your case. However, knowing how to approach that consultation can make all the difference in whether an attorney takes on […]
When navigating the probate process in California, one of the first questions families often ask is: How much will a probate attorney cost? The answer depends on the type of legal services you need—whether it’s a standard probate administration or a more complex trust or estate litigation. Let’s look at probate attorney fees in California. […]
Probate can be a complex and confusing area of law. Whether you’re a beneficiary, executor, or concerned family member, it’s important to come prepared when speaking to a San Diego probate lawyer. Asking the right questions can help you understand your rights, responsibilities, and the overall legal process. The questions you ask will depend on […]
