To avoid probate (which can be a costly and tedious Court proceeding), we often create a Revocable Trust which acts as a container to hold assets.  At death, the Successor Trustee distributes the trust assets as directed in the Trust document, with no need for a probate court order. The Trust can direct distribution only of […]

If someone you love has a disability, there are many needs to consider.  A disability may be the result of an injury or illness, starting at birth or happening later in life. Planning for the future care needs, such as for a disabled child, grandchild, brother or sister,  may be addressed comprehensively by creating a  “Special Needs” Trust.

Third District Court (Sacramento) Appellate Justice Ronald B. Robie spoke on barriers to “Access to Justice” at the Holbrooke Hotel last month, accompanied by five Associate Justices including former Nevada County Judge M. Kathleen Butz. Justice Robie addressed attorneys and guests of the Nevada County Bar Association and Lawyer Referral Service .

A full Probate Estate administration in California to transfer assets after death can be quite costly, and may take a year or more to complete. By contrast, Summary probate administration is simpler and cost-effective, using an affidavit procedure or one-time court petition. New legislation effective January 1st 2012 increased the amount of assets that may […]