What would happen if you could no longer make your own medical decisions? An accident, sudden illness, surgery complication, or loss of mental capacity can happen at any age. If you cannot communicate your wishes, your loved ones may be forced to make difficult decisions without clear guidance. That is why a health care power of attorney is one of the most important documents in a complete estate plan. A health care power of attorney allows you to name someone you trust to make medical … [Read more...] about Why Every Adult Needs a Health Care Power of Attorney
Proposition 19: The California Property Tax Law That Changed Everything
California’s Proposition 19 changed the way families think about inherited property, property tax reassessment, and long-term estate planning. For decades, many California parents could pass real estate to their children while preserving a low property tax basis under Proposition 13. That changed significantly when Proposition 19 took effect. This California property tax law now places strict limits on when children can keep a parent’s lower assessed value after inheriting property. The rules … [Read more...] about Proposition 19: The California Property Tax Law That Changed Everything
Incapacity Planning: Assert Control While You Can
Most people associate estate planning with death. Incapacity planning raises a different, more immediate question: what happens if you are still alive, but no longer able to make decisions? This is not a hypothetical concern reserved for old age. Accidents happen. Illnesses appear without warning. Cognitive decline can begin gradually or progress suddenly. When decision-making ability is interrupted, even temporarily, someone must step in to act. Without a plan, that “someone” is often the … [Read more...] about Incapacity Planning: Assert Control While You Can
That Would Never Happen: The Most Dangerous Words in Estate Planning
One of the most common—and dangerous—phrases in Estate Planning is “that would never happen.” This article explores how assumptions about family dynamics, relationships, and behavior often lead to unintended conflict, litigation, and failed plans. By examining where these assumptions break down, both attorneys and families can build Estate Plans designed to withstand real-world challenges. Continue reading to learn more. … [Read more...] about That Would Never Happen: The Most Dangerous Words in Estate Planning
IRS Warning: The 2026 Dirty Dozen Tax Scams
As we approach the end of another tax season, it’s a good time to review the list of “Dirty Dozen” tax schemes published by the Internal Revenue Service for the year. Many of these schemes peak during tax time and involve fraudsters looking for ways to steal taxpayers’ money, personal information, and data. Attorneys can help their clients by alerting them to these scams and providing advice on how to avoid them. Continue reading to learn more. … [Read more...] about IRS Warning: The 2026 Dirty Dozen Tax Scams
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
The Cost of Care: Understanding Senior Living Options
Here in Silicon Valley, we all recognize that the cost of living is high. During our working years, employment income helps offset those expenses. But retirement changes the equation. When earned income stops, most people rely on Social Security, a pension if they are fortunate, distributions from retirement accounts, or income from rental property. For many families, the real financial pressure begins when health needs change and additional care becomes necessary. That may be sufficient for a … [Read more...] about The Cost of Care: Understanding Senior Living Options
Heart and Foresight: Meet Associate Attorney Rianne Lu
Older adults who undertake estate planning sometimes feel anxious as they navigate sensitive decisions about their assets, their loved ones, and the legacy they want to leave for future generations. Rianne C. Lu chose a career in estate planning law because she enjoys playing a proactive role in guiding clients through that process. One of the most rewarding parts of her work, she says, is helping people find peace of mind. Since joining Litherland, Kennedy & Associates in March 2025, … [Read more...] about Heart and Foresight: Meet Associate Attorney Rianne Lu
Litherland, Kennedy & Associates Named Best in Silicon Valley for Second Consecutive Year
Litherland, Kennedy & Associates is proud to announce that the firm has been named 2026 Best in Silicon Valley by Mercury News readers for the second year in a row, receiving top recognition in both the Law Office and Attorney categories. This honor is especially meaningful because it is based on votes from members of the local community. Being recognized again reflects the trust our clients place in us and reaffirms our commitment to providing thoughtful, compassionate, and high-quality … [Read more...] about Litherland, Kennedy & Associates Named Best in Silicon Valley for Second Consecutive Year
When Estate Planning Fails: Family Infighting and the $10 Billion Lakers Sale
The recent $10 billion sale of the Los Angeles Lakers provides a powerful cautionary tale about Estate Planning, family conflict, and business succession. Despite a sophisticated Trust designed to keep ownership in the Buss family, structural flaws and sibling rivalries ultimately dismantled Jerry Buss’s legacy. This case illustrates why even well-drafted Estate Plans can fail when they ignore real-world dynamics. Learn the critical lessons every family business owner should consider before it’s … [Read more...] about When Estate Planning Fails: Family Infighting and the $10 Billion Lakers Sale
