Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Trustees Vs. Executors
Among the many questions that individuals often ask probate attorneys is, “what is the difference between an executor and a trustee?” If you are asking yourself what the difference between the two is, you should know that you are not alone. After an individual sets up a living trust (a legal document that a… Read More »
Are Holographic Wills Legal In California?
Holographic wills are often drafted in situations where a person knows they are about to die, and they have no one around to help them type or witness the document. Some states do not recognize such wills, whereas others do. California is one of the states that recognizes holographic wills. However, it is essential… Read More »
What You Should Do If You Suspect Will Forgery?
Forging a will with the intention to defraud is a crime in California. Forgery in the state of California can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony. However, this article is not about the criminal aspect of forgery. This article is about California probate and what you should do if you suspect a… Read More »
What Is A California Living Will And Why Do You Need One?
Some estate planning tools have names that sound and look alike, and because of this, it can be confusing for a person to decide which estate planning to go with. Two estate planning tools that have similar-sounding names and that many times cause confusion among people are “last wills (wills)” and “living wills.” Despite… Read More »
Reasons To Amend Your California Revocable Living Trust
If you already set up a revocable living trust for you and your family, congratulations! A trust-based estate plan comes with several advantages to both estate owners and the people who stand to inherit. However, a living trust is only practical if it is up-to-date with your needs/wishes and the needs of your loved… Read More »
Debunking Common Estate Planning Myths
Unfortunately, many Californians do not understand estate planning. As estate planning attorneys, we come across people who think they are too young to engage in estate planning. We also come across other individuals who believe that estate planning is only for the “uberwealthy.” These are myths that need demystification. Firstly, it is never too… Read More »
Altering Or Revoking A California Will
Estate planning is never a one-time affair. Life changes, and with the changes, comes the need to update your will. For instance, if you create a will and then get a new baby, you might want to include that new baby as a beneficiary in your will. To do so, you need to either… Read More »
What Can An Executor Do And What Can’t They Do?
An executor acts as the personal representative of a decedent’s estate. Executors are expected to conduct themselves in a particular manner, meaning that there are things an executor can do and others they can’t do. An executor’s primary duty is to initiate and complete the probate process following a testator’s death. While trying to… Read More »
Why Your Adult Child Needs A Will
As a parent, your number one desire is that your children are cared for after your death. Because of that, you most likely already have a will in place. You probably even have updated your will to make sure it meets your needs and those of your children. With a will in place, you… Read More »
