If you’re searching for a Burbank estate lawyer or an experienced Los Angeles estate lawyer, you likely have the same questions a lot of the California families I work with ask me every day. I get it; estate planning can feel overwhelming. So I’m here to answer some of the most common questions I get asked about being a trust and estate lawyer in Burbank, California.
Do I Really Need an Estate Plan?
Yes. Estate planning isn’t just for the rich. Every adult benefits from having a California estate plan that outlines who makes decisions if you’re incapacitated and who receives your assets when you die. Without an estate plan, the state decides what happens to your assets.
Do I Need a Trust If I’m Not Rich?
This is one of the most common questions a Los Angeles estate lawyer hears. If you own real estate in California, a trust can help you avoid probate, reduce delays, and keep your private life private. At my firm, Best Coast Estate Law, we work with many middle-class families who set up trust and estate plans.
What Happens If I Die Without a Will in California?
If you die without a will, California’s intestate laws determine who inherits your estate. It’s a process that often leads to probate court, delays, and outcomes that don’t reflect your wishes. This is especially common for blended families or people who aren’t married.
How Often Should I Update My Estate Plan?
Most estate planning attorneys in Burbank recommend reviewing your plan every 3–5 years or after major life changes such as getting married, divorced, having kids, or buying property.
Can Estate Planning Help Me While I’m Alive?
Absolutely! Estate planning also includes setting up powers of attorney and healthcare directives that protect you while you’re alive, and, god forbid, incapacitated. Both of these documents allow trusted people to make decisions on your behalf.
Why Should I Work With a Local Burbank Estate Lawyer?
A local Burbank estate lawyer understands California estate laws, Los Angeles County probate courts, and the local property landscape. Working with a nearby attorney ensures your plan is legally sound and tailored to your life.
I tell everyone this, but estate planning doesn’t have to be complicated! A knowledgeable Los Angeles estate lawyer can help you protect your future with clarity and confidence.
