If you own a business or multiple properties, a simple will might not cut it. Many creators and entrepreneurs need a plan that handles complex assets without sending their family to probate court. Our latest post explains why a comprehensive trust costs more than a will but pays for itself by avoiding court fees and tax headaches. Read the full article here: https://tsenglawfirm.com/living-trust-cost-california/

Many families assume they can keep their parents' low property taxes when inheriting a home, but that protection has shrunk. Under current laws, there is a limit on how much value is protected before taxes go up significantly. You only have one year to file the right paperwork and move in to avoid reassessment. Read the full article here: https://tsenglawfirm.com/proposition-19-inheriting-home-california/

Legal documents are written in stiff language that can feel cold to the people reading them after you are gone. You have the chance to add a heartfelt message that guides your loved ones through the process with clarity and care. Learn how to write this non-legal document that acts as a personal instruction manual for your estate. Read the full article here: https://tsenglawfirm.com/letter-of-instruction-how-to-write-one-estate-plan/

Managing a trust involves years of financial judgment and strict legal compliance that can overwhelm a friend or family member. Corporate trustees offer neutrality and dedicated experience to handle these heavy responsibilities without emotional stress. See which option protects the future of your estate plan before you make your final decision. Read the full article here: https://tsenglawfirm.com/choosing-corporate-trustee-vs-individual-trustee/

If you’ve ever thought, 'I don’t want a stuffy, expensive funeral,' you’re not alone. More people are choosing to plan their own send-off—and it can fit your personal values, budget, and style. This post explores why it makes sense to take control of your final goodbye and gives simple tips to start planning. Don’t leave your loved ones guessing. Read the article here: https://tsenglawfirm.com/consider-planning-your-own-funeral/

Parents with more than one child — here's something worth considering. A pot trust allows you to share your assets based on actual financial need rather than splitting everything equally. If you're thinking about estate planning with flexibility in mind, this article lays out the pros and the potential drawbacks. Find out if it fits your goals. Read the article here: https://tsenglawfirm.com/pot-trust-gives-you-flexibility-learn-the-pros-cons/

Married Californians: are you missing out on a massive estate tax break? A legal option called ‘portability’ could save your family millions—but only if you handle it correctly. Our latest post breaks down what DSUE is, why it matters by 2025, and what steps to take before it’s too late. Don’t assume you’re covered—get informed. Read the article here: https://tsenglawfirm.com/portability-dsue-estate-tax-california/

Your brand lives online—so when planning for the future, don’t forget what you’ve built digitally. From websites and email accounts to cloud archives, these assets hold real value. If they’re not in your estate plan, it’s time to fix that. Read the article here: https://tsenglawfirm.com/estate-planning-for-digital-assets/

Think your estate plan is safe? Scammers are out there looking for signs of vulnerability—especially among older adults. This quick read shows you how to spot the five most common estate planning scams and what to do about them. It’s a smart way to protect your assets and your loved ones. Read the article here: https://tsenglawfirm.com/avoid-these-common-estate-planning-scams/

Planning for your blended family's future doesn't have to feel overwhelming. A QTIP trust could help you set up clear, fair plans for...

If you're building your legacy, don’t let poor planning jeopardize it. In California, safeguarding your estate isn't as straightforward...

​Challenging a will is very complex and requires a probate attorney’s representation. The process is time-consuming, costly, and...

​Complex and intense emotions around death, dying, and finances are the reasons why so many people avoid estate planning. However,...

Have you included a safe deposit box reservation in your estate planning process? Safe deposits are an undervalued tool in the estate...

Once you finally get your estate plan together, it feels like a tremendous weight lifted because you know all of your wishes and instructions are in one place and will be legally executed as needed. However, estate plans, including wills and trusts, should be viewed as living documents. These critical documents represent an individual’s or couple’s needs and wishes at a given moment in time, but they can change as time passes or with any notable life changes that may inevitab

Talking about estate planning with your family can be challenging. Sometimes, our clients have a hard time approaching the subject; other...

While legislation has come a long way to support LGBTQ+ individuals and families, their estates can be more vulnerable than most without...

Advance directives are legal documents that provide detailed information about your medical/healthcare choices and wishes in case you...

The growth of the tech industry and our increased dependence on digital and online tools means your 21st-century estate plan needs to...

Adults with any assets, children, or pets should consider estate planning. However, those with large estates require the expertise of...