Estate Planning
Although everyone should have a will, no one can predict when it will be needed. At Happ Law Group P.C., we have found that people are uncomfortable talking about dying. This can hinder an individual from doing what he or she wants to do, which is to arrange their affairs to benefit their survivors after death.
Happ Law Group’s compassionate and respectful approach helps individuals get past their discomfort, turning the process of making a will into a rewarding and comforting experience. There are some who are hesitant to formalize their intentions because they believe they are committed forever. Our estate planning lawyers quickly let them know that a will can and should be modified as time goes on—as children grow up, as families change, or as charitable interests develop.
When we meet with clients to begin the estate-planning process, they walk people through matters such as:
- Drafting a living will to indicate preferences for end-of-life care
- Selecting someone to hold a durable power of attorney and an advance healthcare directive
- Drafting trust documents (e.g. a pour-over trust, a living trust, etc.)
- Drafting a will
- Selecting an executor or personal representative
- Selecting a guardian for minor children
We will discuss the estate-planning options available to you and talk about the advantages and drawbacks of each. With a well-developed estate plan, individuals can help their beneficiaries and family members after they die, eliminating confusion and preventing will contests. It is far better for you, your prospective beneficiaries, and the value of your estate to make plans in advance. Leaving decisions about the distribution of assets to the court can be chaotic, confusing, and potentially more expensive. Do not put off planning your estate—call Happ Law Group today.
To discuss making a will or establishing a trust, contact the Mission Valley office of Happ Law Group P.C.
by calling (619) 906-5800.
Probate
Probate is the court-supervised process developed under California law which has as its goal the transfer of your assets at your death to the beneficiaries set forth in your will, and in the manner prescribed by your will. Happ Law Group P.C. is available to assist with all aspects of probate court and estate administration, including:
- Locating and gathering assets
- Liquidating assets
- Distributing assets
- Preparing and filing state and federal estate tax forms
- Representing clients in estate contests (will contest, trust contest, etc.)
We are here to ease the burden of the executor of the estate. We will work hard to meet that goal by finding out about your situation, your family, and your needs. Our firm will work hard to do what is right for you.
