Two Names on Deed, One Person Dies, What Then?

Two Names on Deed, One Person Dies, What Then?

Gabriel Katzner - August 10, 2026 - Real Estate

Key Takeaways Property ownership after a co-owner’s death depends on the deed’s ownership structure. Joint tenancy with survivorship transfers the deceased owner’s share automatically to surviving owners. Tenancy in common allows a deceased owner’s share to pass to heirs through a will. Tenancy by the entirety transfers full property ownership to the surviving spouse. If […]

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Can I Add My Spouse To My Mortgage Without Refinancing?

Can I Add My Spouse To My Mortgage Without Refinancing?

Gabriel Katzner - June 25, 2026 - Estate Planning

Key Takeaways Adding a spouse to a mortgage requires lender approval because it changes the loan agreement. A deed proves property ownership, while a mortgage represents the loan obligation. Some lenders allow mortgage assumption so a spouse can take over the loan. Loan modification may allow adding a spouse without refinancing. Adding a spouse to […]

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How Does an Inheritance Trust Work?

How Does an Inheritance Trust Work?

Gabriel Katzner - April 6, 2026 - Real Estate

At Katzner Law Group, clients often ask an important planning question: how does an inheritance trust work, and what happens when you inherit money or property through one? An inheritance trust is a powerful estate planning tool that allows assets to be managed and distributed under clear rules after someone passes away. Instead of receiving […]

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Can Two Siblings Have Power of Attorney?

Can Two Siblings Have Power of Attorney?

Gabriel Katzner - March 31, 2026 - Estate Planning

At Katzner Law Group, families often ask an important and emotional question: can two siblings have power of attorney for a parent at the same time? The answer is yes. Two siblings can legally share power of attorney as co-agents, allowing them to jointly manage a parent’s financial or medical affairs. When structured correctly, this […]

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What Makes a Will Invalid?

What Makes a Will Invalid?

Gabriel Katzner - March 2, 2026 - Estate Planning

Creating a will is one of the most important steps in protecting your legacy and ensuring that your wishes are honored. However, not all wills hold up in court. In fact, certain legal or procedural missteps can render a will invalid. At Katzner Law Group, our estate planning attorneys frequently assist individuals and families in […]

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How to Avoid Medi-Cal Estate Recovery in California

How to Avoid Medi-Cal Estate Recovery in California

Gabriel Katzner - February 27, 2026 - Estate Planning

If you or a loved one have ever needed long-term care, you may already be familiar with Medi-Cal, California’s Medicaid program. But what many families don’t realize is that Medi-Cal benefits come with a potential string attached: the Medicaid Estate Recovery Program (MERP). This program allows the state to seek repayment for certain benefits after […]

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What Is a Land Trust and Why Real Estate Investors Use Them

What Is a Land Trust and Why Real Estate Investors Use Them

Gabriel Katzner - February 10, 2026 - Estate Planning

When it comes to asset protection, privacy, and long-term estate planning, few tools offer as much versatility as a land trust. At Katzner Law Group, we work with individuals and families to establish strategic trust-based plans tailored to their real estate and legacy goals. In this guide, we’ll explore what a land trust is, how […]

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What Is a Residuary Trust in New York? How It Works and Why It Matters

What Is a Residuary Trust in New York? How It Works and Why It Matters

Gabriel Katzner - February 5, 2026 - Estate Planning

When planning an estate, many people focus on major assets like real estate or specific bequests to loved ones. However, what happens to everything else, the bank accounts not mentioned, stocks overlooked, or property acquired late in life? This is where a residuary trust comes in. At Katzner Law Group, our experienced estate planning attorneys […]

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Can You Gift a House to Your Child in San Diego? What to Know Before You Do It

Can You Gift a House to Your Child in San Diego? What to Know Before You Do It

Gabriel Katzner - January 30, 2026 - Estate Planning

Gifting a house to your child in San Diego may seem like a generous and straightforward decision, but it comes with legal and tax implications that should not be taken lightly. At Katzner Law Group, we regularly advise families across California and New York on the legal and financial complexities of estate planning, including how […]

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Can a Person with Alzheimer's Change Their Will

Can a Person with Alzheimer’s Change Their Will?

Gabriel Katzner - January 23, 2026 - Estate Planning

When it comes to estate planning and cognitive decline, many families ask a crucial question: Can a person with Alzheimer’s legally change their will? At Katzner Law Group, we help families across California and New York navigate this deeply sensitive issue with care, compassion, and precision. The short answer is yes, a person diagnosed with […]

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