So-called “red flag laws” are in the news as a tool to prevent mass shootings. The California version, known as the Gun Violence Restraining Order (GVRO) law , was passed in 2014. Under the law, family and household members, or law enforcement, may seek a court order restricting access to firearms for someone in “significant danger” […]

Recently I shared information about “Special Needs Trusts and ABLE accounts” with NAMI of Nevada County. I honor this organization which supports, educates and advocates for families of loved ones with a mental illness. NAMI hosts both a monthly family support group, and an education program (where I was the presenter). A Special Needs Trust […]

Estate planning typically focuses on what happens to your assets when you die. But it’s equally important (some might say more important) to have a plan for making critical financial and medical decisions if you’re unable to make those decisions yourself. That’s where the Durable Power of Attorney (DPOA) comes in. By signing a DPOA, […]

For families with disabled loved ones who are potentially eligible for means-tested government benefits such as MediCal (known as Medicaid in other states) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), estate planning can be a challenge. On the one hand, you want to provide the most comfortable life possible for your family member. On the other hand, […]