At Katzner Law Group, we often hear the question: What happens if someone dies without a will in California? Dying without a will—referred to as dying intestate—means the state decides how your estate is distributed, regardless of your personal wishes. Understanding what this means and how it impacts your loved ones is essential for anyone […]
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At Katzner Law Group, we often advise individuals who either serve as trustees or are beneficiaries under a trust. One of the most important—and commonly misunderstood—areas of trust administration is a trustee’s fiduciary duty. When this duty is violated, it can lead to serious consequences for both the trustee and the trust’s beneficiaries. A breach […]
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While we all know that tomorrow is not guaranteed, it is a difficult concept to accept and work with, especially if you have minor children. Estate planning provides the tools you need to anticipate your loved ones’ needs. A comprehensive estate plan details your wishes for how your assets will be distributed. It also enables […]
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Estate planning is a structured approach to anticipating and planning for your future and the future of your loved ones while you are healthy. A comprehensive estate plan ensures minor children have named guardians, you and your loved ones are financially cared for throughout your lifetime and beyond, and you have legal and medical assistance […]
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Trusts can be broadly categorized as revocable or irrevocable. Revocable trusts are commonly referred to as living trusts because the grantor, or person who creates and funds the trust, can retain control over the trust their entire lifetime. When the grantor creates the trust, the trust itself will become the legal owner of the property […]
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Key Takeaways A lien is a legal claim on property that secures a debt or judgment. Liens become public records when recorded with the county records office. Creditors generally must notify owners before filing a lien on property. A title search may reveal liens placed on property without the owner’s knowledge. A lien release removes […]
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If you live in California, you may be able to transfer your real property to your heirs upon your death without going through the probate process. By naming a specific beneficiary or beneficiaries on their deed, a California property owner can transfer ownership of their property to their heir using the revocable transfer on death […]
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A deed is a written document that transfers ownership of a property from one party (grantor) to another (grantee). It defines who owns the property and describes the property that is owned. The person whose name is on the deed holds title to the property. Title is a legal concept, not a legal document. It […]
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As people get older, they may consider adding their child to their bank account or the title to their property. Giving your child direct access to your bank account can simplify bill paying if your child handles those chores for you. It is also a common misconception that adding your child to your accounts or […]
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Key Takeaways A quitclaim deed transfers ownership without guaranteeing clear title. Valid deeds require competent parties and acceptance by the grantee. Lack of capacity may provide grounds to challenge a quitclaim deed. Undue influence or forgery may make a quitclaim deed invalid. Contesting a quitclaim deed requires evidence and a timely legal challenge. A quitclaim […]
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