PROBATE VS. TRUST ADMINISTRATION: UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENCES
As a trusts and estates attorney in California, one of the questions I often encounter from clients is about the differences between probate and trust administration. I aim to provide clarity on this topic and help you understand the distinctions between these two important processes. Probate: A Court-Supervised Process Probate is the court-supervised process of […]
How Long Does Divorce Mediation Take in California?
There is no definitive time frame for how long it takes for divorce mediation in California. Divorce is a challenging chapter in anyone’s life, and the delay and escalating costs of litigation can add to the myriad of emotional and logistical stressors. In California, where divorce rates are significant, couples can pursue mediation—a process aimed at resolving […]
Bifurcated Divorce in California: Ending Your Marriage Faster
Divorce can be a long and arduous process, especially in California. The standard process involves waiting periods, negotiations over property and child custody, and potentially lengthy court proceedings. But what if there was a way to expedite the process, allowing you to move on with your life sooner rather than later? A bifurcated divorce is […]
How a prominent San Francisco divorce lawyer came to be a prominent San Francisco divorce lawyer
There’s a well known axiom in creative writing: write what you know. In other words, use your own personal experience to inform your work. And though it’s seldom associated with or referenced within a legal context, the same could be said for choosing to become a divorce attorney. Top rated San Francisco divorce attorney, Amy […]
Is Your Child Support Lawyer Getting You All The Support You’re Entitled To?
Maybe, maybe not. But since child support laws vary from state to state, let’s first identify exactly how child support is defined in California. According to California Child Support Services, the state agency that governs child support, “Child support is the ongoing contribution of money to help pay for the living and medical expenses of […]
How to Get Divorced in California
Grounds for Divorce in California You don’t need a legally justifiable reason to get divorced in California. You don’t even need the agreement of your soon-to-be-ex (“STBX”). California’s Family Law Act of 1969 made this state the first to allow no-fault divorce. This means anyone can get a California divorce without proof of fault. Every state […]
Is Legal Separation in California Right for You?
You’re trying to save your marriage but concerned about your spouse’s behavior and how it could jeopardize your shared assets. Perhaps your spouse has mental health struggles and engages in irrational spending. Or maybe your spouse is secretive about community account information, refuses to share account access with you, and you’re seriously worried about your […]
Protecting your marriage and future across international borders
Many couples today are finding love across borders, with one partner living in a different country. The global interconnectedness of our digital landscape has somehow made this possible. It is far easier to build and maintain relationships despite the distance. But it does not mean that other aspects of the relationship will be as easy […]
Dealing with a family business during divorce
When a married couple decides to divorce, the division of assets, including a family business, becomes pivotal. Valuation, ownership and communication are key factors in navigating this complex process. Ultimately, seeking professional assistance and prioritizing the best interests of the business can help ensure a smoother transition for all parties. Valuation of the business Determining […]
What trust options do you have for your estate plan?
Estate planning plays a vital role in financial planning, particularly when you want to control how others handle your assets after your passing. Trusts often come into play in estate planning, helping manage and distribute assets. In California, you have access to various types of trusts, each with unique features, benefits and purposes. Revocable living […]
