Effective estate planning is a proactive step that secures your family's future and protects your legacy. In his book, How to Avoid the 12 Biggest Estate Planning Mistakes, Sacramento estate planning attorney John Goralka provides valuable insights and practical tips to help you navigate this essential process.
The guide addresses common estate planning misconceptions, such as the belief that wills are the only necessary documents, or that trusts are only for the wealthy. It highlights the importance of creating a comprehensive plan that accounts for unforeseen events like incapacity or tax changes. By understanding these potential pitfalls, you can ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes, minimizing family disputes and protecting your loved ones from costly and time-consuming court proceedings.
Ask Yourself This Important Question
Are you guilty of believing in any of the “Dirty Dozen” of estate planning mistakes?
- I don’t need to update my living trust.
- I don’t think I need a living trust.
- All living trusts are the same.
- My trustee will be able to step in and handle everything immediately if I’m ill or disabled.
- I have a living trust, so my family will avoid probate.
- My beneficiaries can get their inheritance from my living trust and handle it on their own.
- I have a living trust, so my IRAs and retirement plans are fully protected.
- I have a living trust, so I’m fully protected and don’t need to plan to protect assets from creditors.
- Medi-Cal planning is only for very modest estates. I do not have to worry about Medi-Cal planning because I have a living trust.
- My estate is too small to worry about estate taxes.
- I have a living trust (plus the other planning you recommended), so I’m done.
- I’ll get around to it someday.
If you believe that any of these statements are true, you need this free resource!
Request Your Estate Planning Guide
As a certified specialist in Estate Planning, Trust, and Probate Law by the California State Bar Board of Legal Specialization, John is committed to helping clients understand the steps they must take today to ensure that their assets and their loved ones are fully protected in the years to come. Complete the form below to request your free estate planning guide, then contact our office to schedule a consultation.