Best Estate Planning Lawyers in Woodland Hills
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List of the best lawyers in Woodland Hills, United States
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United States Estate Planning Legal Questions answered by Lawyers
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- My husband passed away five years ago. We have a property in th Philippines and I would like to transfer everything to my child. We are now residing in California, as U.S. citizens and my late husband a Filipino citizen.c
- Hello:We are sorry to hear about the passing of your husband, and we extend our deepest condolences.Regarding your concern, since your husband was a Filipino citizen and you are now both U.S. citizens residing in California, the property transfer to your child in the Philippines can be lawfully facilitated under Philippine succession laws.Here are some important legal points and possible remedies:1. Extrajudicial Settlement of Estate (if there is no will)If your husband died intestate (without a will), and there are no other compulsory heirs aside from your child, you may execute an Extrajudicial Settlement of Estate with Waiver of Rights in favor of your child. This must be:Signed by you as the surviving spouse,Notarized and registered with the Registry of Deeds,Accompanied by a notarized Affidavit of Self-Adjudication or Waiver, if applicable.If the property is titled in your husband's name, the title must be transferred first to the estate, and then to your child.2. Judicial Settlement (if there is a dispute or complications)If:There are other legal heirs,There is no agreement on the partition,Or if a will exists that needs probate,Then a petition for judicial settlement must be filed before the Philippine court having jurisdiction over the property.3. Tax Clearance & Title TransferTo legally transfer the title, the following must also be secured:BIR Certificate Authorizing Registration (CAR),Estate tax clearance,Updated real property tax payments,Transfer of title with the Registry of Deeds.We recommend an initial consultation so we can properly review your husband’s death certificate, property documents, marriage certificate, and your child’s proof of identity. This way, we can assist you in completing all required steps without requiring you to travel to the Philippines.You may directly schedule and automatically get a Google Meet link using the link below:👉 https://calendar.app.google/MuALV3nLqedy9FCx6Our Contact Information:📧 Email: [email protected]📞 Phone/Viber/WhatsApp: 09175046510📍 Office: 5th Floor, Park Centrale Building, IT Park, Apas, Cebu City, 6000We look forward to helping you secure your child’s rightful inheritance.Best,Atty. Jofre RecososaOwner, Recososa Law Firm
- How to protect property from squatters law
- After completing probate to establish yourself as the legal heir, you can transfer the property title to your name and then grant them permission to reside there through a formal agreement.It is worthy to note that you can do it through special attorney.
About Estate Planning Law in Woodland Hills, United States
Estate Planning in Woodland Hills, United States, involves the process of arranging the management and disposal of a person's estate during their life and at and after death while minimizing gift, estate, generation skipping transfer, and income tax. It encompasses several legal directives, including drafting wills, establishing trusts, and making arrangements for guardianship. The primary goal of estate planning is to ensure that a person's wishes regarding their finances and end-of-life care are honored.
Why You May Need a Lawyer
There are several situations where individuals might find the expertise of an estate planning lawyer essential. For example, you may need legal assistance if you own significant assets or have complex family dynamics, such as mixed families or estranged relatives. Additionally, if you wish to reduce your beneficiaries' tax burdens, organize care for dependents, or establish a comprehensive plan for healthcare directives, a lawyer can provide invaluable assistance. Legal counsel is also beneficial to ensure every document complies with current federal and state laws.
Local Laws Overview
Estate Planning in Woodland Hills is subject to both California state and federal laws. The state laws govern the execution of wills, trusts, and probate procedures. California uses a probate process that can be lengthy and costly if not well-planned; therefore, establishing living trusts is commonly recommended. California law also allows for the use of advance healthcare directives and powers of attorney, which can outline your preferences for medical care or designate someone to make decisions on your behalf. Understanding these local legal tools is crucial for effective estate planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents are essential for an estate plan?
An estate plan typically includes a will, one or more trusts, powers of attorney for healthcare and finances, and advance healthcare directives.
What happens if I die without a will in Woodland Hills?
If you die without a will in Woodland Hills, your estate will be distributed according to California's intestacy laws, which may not align with your wishes.
Are there estate taxes in California?
California does not have a state estate tax, but federal estate taxes may still apply depending on the size of your estate.
Can I update my estate plan?
Yes, updating your estate plan as your circumstances change is crucial. This includes changes in marital status, birth of children, or significant changes in assets.
What is a living trust and why is it useful?
A living trust allows you to avoid probate by holding your assets in a trust while you’re alive and transferring them to beneficiaries upon your death without court intervention.
Do I need a lawyer to create a will?
While it's possible to draft a will without legal assistance, hiring a lawyer ensures that all legal requirements are met and helps avoid potential challenges later.
What is a durable power of attorney?
A durable power of attorney is a legal document that grants someone you trust the authority to manage your finances if you become incapacitated.
How can I ensure my healthcare wishes are respected?
An advance healthcare directive allows you to outline your wishes for medical treatment and appoint a healthcare proxy to make decisions if you're unable to do so.
How do I choose an executor for my will?
Choose someone who is responsible, trustworthy, and capable of managing your affairs, such as a family member, friend, or a professional executor.
Is it necessary to name a guardian for my children in my will?
If you have minor children, naming a guardian in your will ensures that someone you trust will care for them if something happens to you.
Additional Resources
For further assistance with estate planning in Woodland Hills, consider reaching out to the California Department of Justice, State Bar of California, or local legal aid organizations. These bodies can provide valuable resources and information regarding estate planning and legal counsel options available to you.
Next Steps
If you need legal assistance with estate planning, start by researching and contacting a qualified estate planning lawyer in Woodland Hills. Schedule a consultation to discuss your goals and receive personalized advice. Preparing with relevant financial documents and a list of personal and family goals will facilitate a productive meeting. Consider seeking recommendations from friends or family and checking credentials and reviews to find a professional suited to your needs.
Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.