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
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
Litherland, Kennedy & Associates – A Half-Century Strong (VIDEO)
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)
Estate Planning 101: Navigating Your Future With Confidence
Estate planning, a crucial aspect of financial management, involves preparing for management of your assets should you become incapacitated and the transfer of assets after death. It is a process that ensures your hard-earned assets are overseen when you are unable to do so and distributed according to your wishes, potentially reducing legal complications, and minimizing taxes for your beneficiaries. The Importance of Estate Planning No matter the size of your estate, planning is essential. It … [Read more...] about Estate Planning 101: Navigating Your Future With Confidence
The Importance of Hiring a Probate Attorney (VIDEO)
In this vlog, Litherland, Kennedy & Associates Attorney Maggie A. LaBranch-Gonzales discusses the Estate of Sanchez, Sixth Appellate District. In the Estate of Sanchez, the appeals court upheld that a personal representative may not represent the estate in propria persona (without the assistance of an attorney) even in the probate action on claims pursued for the benefit of the estate’s beneficiaries. Maggie discusses some elements of the case and the importance of hiring a probate attorney … [Read more...] about The Importance of Hiring a Probate Attorney (VIDEO)
The Wonder of Wills
Many Estate Planning attorneys have fielded a question regarding whether an Estate Plan was necessary, or whether a Will is necessary if the client has a Revocable Trust. Let’s settle the debate now. Even in an Estate Plan based upon a Revocable Trust, Wills play an important role. Everyone with an Estate Plan needs to have a Will because certain things can only be done with a Will. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about The Wonder of Wills
Aretha Franklin’s Unsettled Estate (VIDEO)
In this vlog, Attorney Justin M. Kennedy discusses Aretha Franklin's unsettled estate, which, five years after her death, is going to trial due to the discovery of two different handwritten wills. Note: A jury in Michigan has ruled that a handwritten will found under Aretha Franklin's couch cushion is valid as her will, according to the Associated Press. … [Read more...] about Aretha Franklin’s Unsettled Estate (VIDEO)
Five Tips for Planning Your Estate Effectively
A lot of people without estate plans do not take action because they don’t know where to begin. With this in mind, let’s look at five tips that should provide some insight and motivation. Focus on Your Family Estate planning can seem like a somber responsibility that is easy to put off, and the years of inaction can start to add up. You may know that you should put a plan in place, but it is easy to convince yourself that there is time to do it later. Indeed, you may live a long and full … [Read more...] about Five Tips for Planning Your Estate Effectively
What Is Probate and Why Do People Avoid It?
Probate is the legal process that occurs after someone dies, where their assets are distributed to their heirs or beneficiaries. While probate can be a necessary and important process, it can also be time-consuming, expensive, and stressful for those involved. For this reason, many people choose to avoid probate altogether. In this post, we will explore why you would want to avoid probate. Time-Consuming One of the main reasons people want to avoid probate is because it can be a lengthy … [Read more...] about What Is Probate and Why Do People Avoid It?
Yes, You Need an Estate Plan! (VIDEO)
In this Vlog, Attorney Justin M. Kennedy discusses his new book "Yes, You Need an Estate Plan!" Justin illustrates in this Vlog that everyone over the age of 18 needs some sort of estate plan, and the documents which should be included in an estate plan can change over the course of someone's life. For more information on Justin's book, visit www.attorneyoffice.com/book. … [Read more...] about Yes, You Need an Estate Plan! (VIDEO)
