Should you put your home in a trust? Many families use a trust for their residence, but the decision turns on control, incapacity planning, and long‑term administration. The deeper issue is understanding what actually changes once the deed is retitled. Why the Question Comes Up So Often in California Bay Area residents face a combination of high property values, blended family structures, and a probate system in Santa Clara County that can be time-consuming, costly, and public. A home is … [Read more...] about Should You Put Your Home in a Trust?
What Happens If You Die Without a Will in California? Understanding California Probate, Intestate Succession, and Why Estate Planning Matters
Estate planning is often an uncomfortable topic, yet it is one of the most important steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones. A common question we hear is, "What happens if I die without a will in California?" If you die without a valid will—or without a comprehensive estate plan—California law determines who inherits your assets. Depending on the type of property you own and your family circumstances, your loved ones may also have to go through probate before receiving … [Read more...] about What Happens If You Die Without a Will in California? Understanding California Probate, Intestate Succession, and Why Estate Planning Matters
What Happens to a Living Trust When the First Spouse Dies? A Trusts and AB Trusts Explained (VIDEO)
One of the most common questions married couples ask when creating an estate plan is: What happens to our living trust when the first spouse dies? The answer depends on how the trust was designed. In this video, estate planning attorney Justin M. Kennedy explains two common trust structures for married couples: the A Trust (single trust) structure and the AB Trust structure. While both options begin as a joint living trust during the spouses' lifetimes, they function very differently after the … [Read more...] about What Happens to a Living Trust When the First Spouse Dies? A Trusts and AB Trusts Explained (VIDEO)
How to Choose a Successor Trustee for Your Living Trust in California
When people hear about the benefits of a living trust, they are often drawn to creating one as part of their estate plan. However, an equally important decision is choosing the right successor trustee. The person or institution you select will be responsible for managing your trust if you become incapacitated or after you pass away. Quick Answer: How Do You Choose a Successor Trustee? A successor trustee is the person or institution who manages your living trust if you become incapacitated or … [Read more...] about How to Choose a Successor Trustee for Your Living Trust in California
Secure Your Future: Why Estate Planning Should Still Be at the Top of Your Resolution List
By February, many New Year’s resolutions have already started to fade. Gym visits slow down. Budget goals get postponed. Life gets busy again. But there is one resolution that is too important to delay: creating or updating your estate plan. While many people focus on health or financial goals at the start of the year, few consider what may be the most consequential decision of all. A thoughtful estate plan protects your finances, your healthcare decisions, and the people you love … [Read more...] about Secure Your Future: Why Estate Planning Should Still Be at the Top of Your Resolution List
No Time Like the Present: Show Your Love by Making an Estate Plan
Making an estate plan is one of the most meaningful ways to show your love and care for your family — yet many Americans continue to put it off. A 2025 survey found that only about one in three adults have an estate plan — continuing a downward trend seen in recent years. National Estate Planning Awareness Week is observed during the third full week of October each year, and now is the perfect time to reflect on your own plans and ensure your wishes are clearly documented and … [Read more...] about No Time Like the Present: Show Your Love by Making an Estate Plan
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?
Homeowner Insurance, Title Insurance, and Your Living Trust (VIDEO)
In this Vlog, Litherland, Kennedy & Associates Attorney Justin M. Kennedy discusses the importance of adding your Living Trust as an additionally insured on your Homeowner, Fire, Earthquake, Flood and Title Insurance policies. … [Read more...] about Homeowner Insurance, Title Insurance, and Your Living Trust (VIDEO)
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
Estate Planning and the Rule of Three (VIDEO)
In this vlog, estate planning and elder care attorney Justin M. Kennedy discusses Estate Planning and the Rule of Three. To learn more about the importance of comprehensive estate planning and applying the rule of three to your plan, attend one of our free living trust seminars by clicking here. … [Read more...] about Estate Planning and the Rule of Three (VIDEO)
