Litherland, Kennedy & Associates attended the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys’ Fall Summit in San Diego, California, from October 16–19, 2025. The Summit brought together leading estate planning attorneys from across the country to explore emerging legal trends, elevate practice management, and share innovative strategies for delivering exceptional client care. This year’s theme, “Reflect. Refuel. Reimagine.”, encouraged attendees to pause and evaluate current practices, … [Read more...] about Stepping Forward: New Tools and Training to Better Serve Our Clients and Community
Hulk Hogan and Disclaimers…?
When Terry Bollea, aka “Hulk Hogan,” died on July 24 at age 71 in his Clearwater, Florida home, I wondered if I’d have another celebrity estate gone awry to discuss. I found something different but equally important for Estate Planning practitioners: disclaimers. Continue reading to learn more. … [Read more...] about Hulk Hogan and Disclaimers…?
No More Cheeseburgers in Paradise
Jimmy Buffett’s brand of music inspired a way of life dedicated to relaxing. A trip to Key West, Florida embodies everything Jimmy held dear and serves as the backdrop to many of his songs. More than one city hosts a restaurant titled after his hit song, “Margaritaville.” While Buffett appeared to live a carefree lifestyle full of fun, his 2023 death alerted us that his passing left some issues unresolved. Continue reading to learn more. … [Read more...] about No More Cheeseburgers in Paradise
National Make-a-Will Month
Although many Estate Plans have a Revocable Trust as the foundation for the plan, Wills play an important role in a comprehensive Estate Plan. Alarmingly, most Americans don’t have a Will even though they know it’s important. As National Make a Will month comes to a close, let’s explore the often overlooked and neglected Estate Planning document, the Will. Continue reading to learn more. … [Read more...] about National Make-a-Will Month
Attorney Justin M. Kennedy Selected as 2025 Super Lawyer
We are proud to announce that Attorney Justin M. Kennedy has been selected to the 2025 California Super Lawyers list. This is the second year in a row that Justin has been rated as a Super Lawyer. Each year, no more than five percent of the lawyers in the state are selected by the research team at Super Lawyers to receive this honor. Super Lawyers, part of Thomson Reuters, is a rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high degree of peer … [Read more...] about Attorney Justin M. Kennedy Selected as 2025 Super Lawyer
Estate Planning Insight: Are Your Really Putting Family First?
You probably say that your family is your top priority. Most people do. You work hard to provide for them, make sacrifices for their well-being, and do everything you can to keep them safe. But if you haven’t created an estate plan, ask yourself: Are you truly putting your family first? Most adults in the U.S. don’t have a will—let alone a comprehensive estate plan. Many intend to "get around to it" someday, but life has a way of getting in the way. Unfortunately, unexpected events rarely wait … [Read more...] about Estate Planning Insight: Are Your Really Putting Family First?
Graduation . . . What’s Next?
While summer gives us pools, barbecues, and a break from the usual grind, it also provides an opportunity to undertake some necessary Estate Planning, especially for young adults heading off to college. Continue reading to learn more. … [Read more...] about Graduation . . . What’s Next?
6 Common Estate Planning Mistakes That Could Cost Your Heirs a Bundle
Estate planning protects your family’s financial future, but even small mistakes can cause expensive problems for your heirs. Many people believe they’ve covered everything—only to later realize they’ve overlooked key details. In our Campbell community, families often face avoidable delays and costs due to common estate planning errors. Let’s look at six costly mistakes that can burden your loved ones and diminish your legacy. Mistake #1: Failing to Update Beneficiary Designations Your … [Read more...] about 6 Common Estate Planning Mistakes That Could Cost Your Heirs a Bundle
In Loving Memory of All the Pets Who Have Crossed the Rainbow Bridge
The grief of putting my dog down got me wondering about how animals process grief and how much harder it may be for them since they lack the ability to put their feelings into words the way that humans can. Thus, the idea for this blog focusing on options for pets upon the death of their owners was born. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about In Loving Memory of All the Pets Who Have Crossed the Rainbow Bridge
The Big Lesson from Tony Bennett’s Embattled Estate and Troubled Trust
When one child occupies a position of trust with a parent to the exclusion of other siblings, that causes friction. Extending that position of power after death exacerbates that friction and may cause irreparable harm. It seems that happened upon the death of beloved singer, Tony Bennett. His daughters have sued their brother on two different occasions leveling some unflattering allegations. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about The Big Lesson from Tony Bennett’s Embattled Estate and Troubled Trust
