Why Do I Need a Will?
A will is a legal document that outlines what your best wishes are and how they will be carried out. If you pass away without a will in California, the state determines who will inherit your property. Depending on whether you are married, single and have community or separate property, your property can be distributed in various ways. There are several different types of wills, and based on your specific needs, we can help you determine which one is right for you and your family.
At Law Offices of Alice A. Salvo in Woodland Hills, California, we help clients understand the benefits of drafting a well thought-out will and can explain various options to leave your estate to your beneficiaries. We also offer cost-effective estate planning strategies that may save your heirs money and taxes. With more than 20 years of experience and dedication to helping clients protect what is most important to them, we can help you determine the best way to leave your inheritance and minimize future complications.
What a Will Can and Cannot Do
A will can establish:
- Who will be in charge of your estate
- The guardian for your minor children
- A testamentary trust
A will does not cover:
- Joint tenancy assets
- Life insurance and retirement plans
- Assets held in a trust
A will does not protect your estate from going to court. If you have more than $100,000 at the time of your death, your estate must go through probate. There are several ways to avoid probate and we can advise you on what options those are.
Contact Our Woodland Hills Estate Planning Lawyer Today
To schedule a free initial consultation with our Woodland Hills, California wills attorney, call 818-676-9572, or fill out our short contact form.
