1. What does an estate planning attorney do?
An estate planning attorney helps you protect your assets and ensure your wishes are carried out through legal tools such as trusts, wills, and powers of attorney. They also provide guidance on minimizing taxes and avoiding probate.

2. Why is estate planning important?
Estate planning ensures your loved ones are cared for, your assets are distributed according to your wishes, and unnecessary legal complications or court costs are avoided after your passing.

3. When should I create or update my estate plan?
You should create or review your estate plan whenever you experience a major life change—such as marriage, divorce, having children, purchasing property, or starting a business.

4. What is the difference between a will and a trust?
A will directs how your assets will be distributed after death and must go through probate. A trust allows you to transfer assets during your lifetime, often avoiding probate and providing greater privacy.

5. How can I avoid probate in California?
Creating a properly funded revocable living trust is one of the most effective ways to avoid probate. An attorney can help ensure all your assets are titled correctly to achieve this.

6. What is a durable power of attorney?
A durable power of attorney designates someone you trust to handle financial or legal matters if you become incapacitated. It helps prevent the need for court-appointed conservatorships.

7. What is an advanced health care directive?
An advance health care directive outlines your medical care preferences and appoints someone to make health decisions for you if you can’t do so yourself.

8. How often should I meet with my estate planning lawyer?
We recommend reviewing your estate plan every 3–5 years, or sooner after significant life or financial changes, to ensure it reflects your current circumstances and California law.

9. What happens if I die without a will in California?
If you pass away without a valid will or trust, your estate will be distributed according to California’s intestate succession laws, which may not align with your personal wishes.

10. Can LaVelle Law Offices help with trust administration?
Yes. Our attorneys guide trustees through all stages of trust administration—asset management, tax filings, and distributions—ensuring full legal compliance and family peace of mind.

11. Do you handle business succession planning?
Absolutely. We help business owners create succession plans that protect company value, reduce taxes, and ensure smooth transitions to the next generation or key employees.

12. How much does estate planning cost?
Fees vary based on the complexity of your estate and the types of documents needed. LaVelle Law Offices offers transparent pricing and can recommend a plan that fits your goals and budget.

13. Can estate planning help minimize taxes?
Yes. Proper estate planning can reduce estate, gift, and income taxes through strategic use of trusts, charitable giving, and asset structuring.

14. Is my estate plan valid if I move to another state?
If you move, you should have an attorney review your documents. State laws differ, and certain provisions may need to be updated to remain enforceable.

15. How can I get started with LaVelle Law Offices?
You can schedule a consultation by calling (510) 393-2083
We’ll discuss your goals, explain your options, and begin building a plan tailored to you.