Identity theft cost Americans $23 billion in 2023, up 13% from 2022, and the scams are becoming increasingly difficult to unravel. On average, consumers spent 10 hours resolving issues caused by identity fraud in 2023, up from six hours in 2022, according to the 2024 Identity Fraud Study. Understanding Identity Theft Identity theft can strike anyone. Criminals often pose as representatives from government agencies, utility companies, or banks, demanding sensitive information via phone, email, … [Read more...] about Protect Yourself: How to Combat Identity Theft
Estate Planning and Baseball
Every state that recognizes trusts as legal entities imposes fiduciary duties upon the Trustee of such trusts. These duties may have different names in different jurisdictions, but ultimately a breach of fiduciary duties means that the Trustee failed to fulfill their duties as expressed in the trust instrument and under local law. This article examines a case ripped from the headlines that demonstrates the importance of choosing the right individuals to serve as fiduciaries. Read on to learn … [Read more...] about Estate Planning and Baseball
Are Irrevocable Trusts Really Irrevocable – Part II
For many years Estate Planning attorneys touted irrevocable trusts as an immutable way to set an estate plan in stone. As more and more states have adopted the Uniform Trust Code that has changed. Provisions of the Uniform Trust Code allow for modification of an otherwise irrevocable trust which has altered the landscape of Estate Planning. Irrevocable Trusts have long been an effective, albeit static, estate planning tool, with the ability to alter irrevocable trusts, they provide more … [Read more...] about Are Irrevocable Trusts Really Irrevocable – Part II
Understanding the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) and Its Latest Updates
The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), a division of the U.S. Department of the Treasury, enforces the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA). Recently, FinCEN announced a new compliance deadline of March 21, 2025, for small businesses to file their Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reports. If your business qualifies for disaster relief, you may have an extended deadline in April. However, for most businesses, the March deadline stands. A nationwide injunction temporarily halted the … [Read more...] about Understanding the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) and Its Latest Updates
Pet Ownership for Seniors and Providing for Your Pet in Your Living Trust Estate Plan
The golden years often bring a desire for relaxation and peace, but they can also usher in feelings of loneliness or boredom. Pet ownership can fill this void in numerous ways, adding both joy and health benefits to the lives of seniors. Let's delve into the multiple advantages that come with owning a pet in your later years and the trust solution that can make it happen. Boosts Mental Well-Being Owning a pet requires you to engage mentally, whether you're teaching your dog new tricks or … [Read more...] about Pet Ownership for Seniors and Providing for Your Pet in Your Living Trust Estate Plan
Are Irrevocable Trusts Really Irrevocable – Part I
For many years Estate Planning attorneys touted irrevocable trusts as an immutable way to set an estate plan in stone. As more and more states have adopted the Uniform Trust Code that has changed. Provisions of the Uniform Trust Code allow for modification of an otherwise irrevocable trust which has altered the landscape of Estate Planning. Irrevocable Trusts have long been an effective, albeit static, estate planning tool, with the ability to alter irrevocable trusts, they provide more … [Read more...] about Are Irrevocable Trusts Really Irrevocable – Part I
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)
Proper Estate Planning Brings Peace of Mind During a Disaster
Estate planning isn’t just about securing your legacy—it’s about protecting your assets and loved ones when disaster strikes. Updating an outdated Estate Plan or creating a new one provides a set of instructions for your family regarding what you want to happen during your life if you lose the ability to communicate that and at death. It provides comfort and a sense of control. This article will serve as a guide to getting more out of your Estate Plan during a disaster. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about Proper Estate Planning Brings Peace of Mind During a Disaster
Planning for Incapacity: A Crucial Component of Your Estate Plan
The Reality of Aging and Incapacity Planning As you transition into middle age, you may begin to notice changes in your physical capabilities. While this is a natural part of aging, most individuals in this stage can still manage their daily needs independently. However, it can be difficult to envision a time when assistance with basic tasks may become necessary. Longevity statistics emphasize the importance of preparing for this possibility through a well-thought-out incapacity planning … [Read more...] about Planning for Incapacity: A Crucial Component of Your Estate Plan
Artificial Intelligence-Enabled Voice Cloning Tools and Scam Prevention (VIDEO)
In this vlog, Litherland, Kennedy & Associates Attorney Justin M. Kennedy discusses the latest news on artificial intelligence-enabled voice cloning tools, how scammers are using this technology to defraud victims of billions of dollars, and an easy step you can implement to protect yourself from the latest scams. Transcript: Hello, I'm attorney Justin M. Kennedy with Litherland, Kennedy and Associates, a California estate planning and elder care law firm. In 2023 I provided a … [Read more...] about Artificial Intelligence-Enabled Voice Cloning Tools and Scam Prevention (VIDEO)
