Wills and Trusts in Oakland, CA
Writing a will or setting up a trust can ensure your assets go where you want after your death. However, the legal requirements and complexities of estate planning in Oakland can be daunting.
Hiring a local attorney can be necessary whether you are just starting or need to update an existing plan. Reading this article today will give you some essential details they will need to know.
How Do Wills and Trusts Work?
Drafting wills and trusts is essential to your estate’s assets in Oakland, California. Although it may not be a pleasant subject, it is necessary. You may not prevent complications or conflicts among your loved ones otherwise.
So, how do wills and trusts function? While you don’t have to hire an estate planning attorney, their guidance can prove invaluable. Both documents must comply with state requirements, and an attorney can handle the necessary details.
Trust vs Will
Wills and trusts help determine the distribution of your estate after your passing. But they differ in their approaches and functions.
So, how do wills and trusts operate in Oakland, CA?
A will is a legally binding document that outlines your assets, beneficiaries, and transfer methods. On the other hand, a trust establishes a financial relationship to manage savings, properties, or investments. These two documents often work together as components of your overall estate planning strategy.
How to Create a Will or Trust in Oakland, California
Identify Assets
The initial step in creating a will or trust involves taking stock of every asset. Most estates include property, investment accounts, or business ownership.
It is advisable to consult with an experienced estate planning attorney to navigate this process efficiently. Once you understand your needs, you can proceed with a clear set of goals.
Choose the Distribution
Although you need a plan for distributing assets, it is also crucial to consider what is beyond your control. For instance, a life insurance policy or a 401k may have designated beneficiaries not in your current documents.
Choose the Executor of your Oakland, CA Will or Trust
The executor of your will or trust is legally responsible for carrying out your wishes. You can choose someone you trust in your immediate social circle. But it is also worth considering an attorney or accountant for the role. A dependable trust or will lawyer can help you make informed decisions along the way.
California law does not require a personal representative for a will to be a relative. However, if they do not live in the state, they must be related to the decedent from Oakland.
Choose a Guardian
If you do not want to leave appointing a guardian to the courts, select one yourself. You only have to name them in your will.
Sign with Witnesses
Once everything is in order, the next step is to make the will or trust official. You and the witnesses must sign the document to make it legally binding.
Update and Create your Will or Trust as Necessary
After going through the preparation process, you may feel bound to your will. However, you do not have to feel obligated to your decisions. If your circumstances change, do not hesitate to make adjustments. Otherwise, your final wishes may not carry out correctly.
Some common alterations someone from Oakland may make to their will are:
- Adding or removing beneficiaries
- Changing the distribution of assets
- Updating executor or trustee
- Revoking a provision
The Different Types of Wills in Oakland, CA
Simple Will
A simple will is a document that meets the minimum requirements for determining how your assets should be distributed. However, it is still subject to probate.
This document outlines the distribution by an executor to designated beneficiaries, which may also include pets. As with any estate planning matter, consulting with a trust attorney can tailor it to your needs.
Joint Will
A joint will is a document created by two individuals, typically a married couple. It describes how their assets will disperse after one or both pass away. Although it is a single document, it can be two distinct entities under the law.
Living Will
A living will gives directives to medical providers regarding your wishes for end-of-life care. It comes into effect when you become incapacitated and cannot express your desires. Typically, a living will does not include beneficiaries after your passing. Its sole function is to inform doctors and nurses of your preferences.
Holographic Will
A holographic will is a handwritten document by the testator. It may apply even if it exists on a napkin or regular paper.
While most states require witnesses to sign a testament, holographic wills may still be legally valid. Although, they are more commonly accepted when created during emergencies.
According to California Probate Code, a holographic will from Oakland is valid if it meets these criteria:
- Written in the testator’s handwriting;
- Dated
- Signed by the testator
Pour-Over Will
A pour-over will is testamentary that creates a trust and identifies the transferrable property. This document is a safety measure that ensures assets go to an account that might not have received them otherwise.
The Different Types of Trusts in Oakland, CA
Irrevocable Trust
This type of trust is irrevocable and cannot change or terminate without the permission of the beneficiaries. It legally transfers assets to a trust, and the grantor gives up ownership. While this may provide significant tax benefits, it can also have drawbacks depending on your circumstances.
Revocable Trust
This type of trust offers the flexibility for the grantor to make changes to it. If you require funds for living expenses, it can offer a solution while protecting your estate wishes.
Family Trust
Individuals create this trust to provide for their family members after passing away. It offers reassurance that children, siblings, or extended family members can access what you designated.
Charitable Trust
This trust could be suitable if you desire to leave a charitable legacy while providing for your family. Some individuals opt to designate ownership in a business, stocks, or real estate as a contribution.
How to Avoid Probate in Oakland, CA
While states may have similarities in how they distribute assets, the specific details can vary. In most states, probate is necessary unless the estate is small and does not involve property.
An estate from Oakland generally needs to go through probate if the assets are more than $166,250. Alternatively, it is mandatory with worth more than $55,425 in real property. The executor or personal representative should contact the local probate court in Alameda County. The court will review the assets, debts, and other factors to determine if this process is necessary.
Work with an Experienced Oakland, California Estate Planning Will and Trust Attorney
While planning for your eventual passing may not be enjoyable, it is necessary. Throughout the process, you may question how wills and trusts operate in Oakland, CA. A lawyer can provide significant value by identifying potential issues. We can even help you connect with legal help across California state lines.
Submit a request or call us today at (866)-345-6784 to speak to a local will and trust attorney!
