Westlake Law Group offers clear, client-facing guidance for California families and fiduciaries on estate planning, trusts, probate, conservatorships, and related litigation, with practical explanations of common issues, planning considerations, and process overviews to help readers understand next steps. For help with a specific situation, call Westlake Law Group at (818) 444-2022. 30699 Russell Ranch Road, North Building, Suite 210, Westlake Village, California. Virtual consultations are available throughout Southern California.
A successor trustee in California has real legal responsibilities from the start, including confirming authority, protecting assets, and handling required notices. This overview explains the first steps after a death and when trust administration issues may need closer legal attention.
Probate in California depends on how assets are titled, not just whether there is a will. This post explains common triggers for probate, major non-probate exceptions, and why an early inventory of accounts, deeds, and beneficiary designations can quickly clarify the likely path for Ventura County families.
Signing a revocable trust is not the finish line. This post explains what it means to fund a trust in California, which assets require retitling versus beneficiary updates, and how a simple checklist and good documentation can reduce probate risk and make administration easier for your family.
A federal rule taking effect in 2026 changes how catch-up contributions work for certain higher earners, requiring Roth treatment in many cases. This post explains the wage threshold concept, why plan features matter, and what to review now to avoid surprises during year-end retirement planning.
Refund claims have strict IRS time limits, and “financial disability” is a narrow exception with detailed documentation requirements. This post explains what the IRS expects, why procedure matters, and what families should gather before filing when illness or impairment affected financial decision-making.
An intentionally defective grantor trust can be a sophisticated way to move future asset growth outside an estate while the grantor continues paying income tax. This post explains the basics, common sale structures, and why advance planning before 2026 can matter for high net worth families.
Beneficiaries often ask trustees for financial information when distributions slow down or questions arise. This post explains how to respond to a California trust accounting request calmly, what records to gather, and how to communicate progress in Los Angeles County without escalating conflict.
Conservatorship and power of attorney serve different roles in California when someone needs help managing finances or personal care. This overview explains key differences, when court oversight may be needed, and what families in Ventura County should consider before choosing a path.
In 2026, the federal estate and gift tax exemption increased to $15 million per person. This article explains why estate planning still matters, what families should review now, and how to avoid common mistakes that lead to conflict and court involvement.
