In this Vlog, Litherland, Kennedy & Associates Attorney and President celebrates the major milestone of the firm providing 50 years of service to our community. Transcript: Hello, I'm attorney Justin M. Kennedy. This year, I am honored to celebrate a major milestone with our team at Litherland, Kennedy & Associates: 50 years of service to our community. Our office was founded in 1975 with the goal of providing quality legal services and education in the Bay Area. Our … [Read more...] about Litherland, Kennedy & Associates – A Half-Century Strong (VIDEO)
Why Do People Use Living Trusts?
Many people think that trusts are only useful for wealthy people with estate tax concerns, but this is not the case at all. In fact, the revocable living trust is a versatile estate planning tool that can be ideal for a wide range of people. In this post, we will look at four reasons why you may want to use a living trust as the centerpiece of your estate plan. Streamlined Estate Administration Process When you establish a living trust, you make the trust the owner of your personally held … [Read more...] about Why Do People Use Living Trusts?
The Different Stages of Estate Planning
Estate planning is an essential part of financial management. It ensures that your financial and healthcare decisions can be made as you see fit should you become incapacitated, and that your assets are distributed according to your wishes after your death. The ideal approach to estate planning evolves as you age, reflecting changes in your financial situation, family dynamics, and personal goals. Here's a guide to understanding the different stages of estate planning through various life … [Read more...] about The Different Stages of Estate Planning
Pumpkin Kisses and Harvest Wishes
As the spooky season transitions into the season of Thanksgiving, it’s important to remember our why. Most of us do what we do for our families and loved ones. As the holiday season approaches, do something that will have a lasting impact on your family. Create a comprehensive Estate Plan. Make sure that you take the time to consult a qualified Estate Planning attorney who can provide advice regarding all the elements necessary to complete your plan. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about Pumpkin Kisses and Harvest Wishes
Estate Planning: There’s Something Here for Everyone – Part II
Some individuals create a Revocable Trust, pour-over Will, Property Power of Attorney, Health Care Power of Attorney, Living Will, Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act Authorization Act and think that those documents alone constitute a complete Estate Plan that will protect their family. While the documents themselves represent a solid beginning, the documents don’t cover every asset or concern. A qualified Estate Planning attorney will consider all and provide advice regarding … [Read more...] about Estate Planning: There’s Something Here for Everyone – Part II
How to Start the Estate Planning Conversation Today
Has your family discussed estate planning? American families are facing a future crisis. A 2023 survey found that only one-third of U.S. adults have an estate plan. Though that statistic increases to 44% for those age 55 and older, it is still a wildly insufficient number that will lead to confusion and stress for many. October 21 kicks off National Estate Planning Awareness Week, and it is clear that many need help understanding the benefits of getting their affairs in order. As estate … [Read more...] about How to Start the Estate Planning Conversation Today
LGBTQ+ Estate Planning: Navigating Challenges
Estate planning, often viewed as a complex legal task, holds particular significance for members of the LGBTQ+ community. This necessity stems from unique familial, legal, and social circumstances that can impact the way assets and end-of-life wishes are managed and honored. Understanding Living Trusts vs. Wills Though there are other types of trusts, the decision between a revocable living trust and a will as an asset transfer vehicle is usually at the core of the process. A living trust … [Read more...] about LGBTQ+ Estate Planning: Navigating Challenges
10 Reasons Why Hiring an Estate Planning Attorney Is a Must
Planning your estate is a crucial step to ensure your assets and loved ones are taken care of after you are gone. However, the process is not as straightforward as you might think, and there are many reasons to consider hiring an estate planning attorney to guide you. Below are ten compelling reasons why this decision can make all the difference for your future and your peace of mind. Gain Expert Advice Tailored to Your Situation Every individual’s estate is different, requiring a tailored … [Read more...] about 10 Reasons Why Hiring an Estate Planning Attorney Is a Must
Take These Six Steps to Create Your Estate Plan
Many people understand the importance of having an estate plan but often delay because they’re unsure how to start. Tackling something unfamiliar can feel daunting, but here are six straightforward steps to help you get started on creating your estate plan. Step 1: Assess Your Assets Although estimating the future value of your assets isn’t an exact science, you can still make a reasonable projection about what you’ll pass on to your loved ones. Start by identifying the property, investments, … [Read more...] about Take These Six Steps to Create Your Estate Plan
Tread Carefully with Specific Bequests
Parents often decide to leave one child a specific asset and provide an equalizing cash bequest to the other. This article explores how specific bequests may provide unintended results. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about Tread Carefully with Specific Bequests
