Your Questions Answered

Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about estate planning in California. My goal is to provide clarity and help you make informed decisions. If you have further questions, please contact me at 
ben@kingstonlawpc.com.

General Questions

The easiest way is to click the yellow “Schedule a (Free) Consultation” button at the top of this page. Alternatively, you can call my office (310.403.7022) to schedule an appointment.

Estate Planning Packages: Typically range from $3,000 to $4,000. Your exact investment depends on your specific needs and goals, which we’ll discuss during your free consultation.

  1. Personalized Advice: I offer tailored guidance specific to California law and your unique circumstances.
  2. Reduced Risk of Errors: Legal documents prepared by an attorney are less likely to contain errors that could lead to complications.
  3. Legal Protection: As a licensed attorney, I carry professional liability insurance, providing an additional layer of protection for you and your loved ones.
  1. Focused Expertise: Aside from business law, I concentrate exclusively on estate planning, staying current with the latest California laws and best practices.
  2. Personal Attention: As a solo practitioner, I provide one-on-one support to tailor your estate plan to your specific needs.
  3. Efficient Process: I utilize modern technology to streamline the planning process while maintaining a personal touch.
  4. Dedication: I’m passionate about helping clients achieve peace of mind about their family’s future.

Our journey begins with a free initial consultation to understand your needs. I then provide personalized advice and draft your documents. You’ll have direct access to me throughout the entire process.

Estate Planning

  1. Ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes and in compliance with California law.
  2. Appoints trusted individuals to make decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to do so.
  3. Helps avoid probate, saving time and money for your loved ones.
  4. Provides clarity and peace of mind for you and your family.

Generally, the process from initial consultation to the signing of documents takes about 3-4 weeks. However, I’m happy to work with your schedule if you have specific timing concerns.

Absolutely! Estate planning documents should be reviewed and updated regularly. I recommend reviewing your documents annually and contacting me with any questions. Additionally, I suggest a thorough review every 3-5 years or after significant life events (marriage, divorce, birth of a child, major asset acquisition)

While both are estate planning tools, a revocable living trust offers several advantages in California:

  1. Avoids probate, saving time and money
  2. Provides privacy (unlike a will, which becomes public record)
  3. Allows for more complex distribution plans
  4. Can be used to manage your assets if you become incapacitated

Your estate will be distributed according to California’s intestate succession laws, which may not align with your wishes. The process can be more complicated and stressful for your loved ones, potentially leading to family conflicts and unnecessary costs.

Incapacity Planning

These documents allow you to appoint trusted individuals to make decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to do so. They prevent complications and provide clarity for your loved ones in difficult times.

A Durable Power of Attorney allows you to appoint someone to make financial decisions on your behalf if you lose capacity. Without this document, your family might have to go through a court process to manage your finances, which can be time-consuming and expensive.

An Advance Healthcare Directive appoints someone to make medical decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. It also allows you to specify your wishes for end-of-life care. Without this document, your loved ones might struggle to decide or disagree about your care.

Please feel free to contact me at ben@kingstonlawpc.com anytime. I’m here to help you navigate the estate planning process confidently.

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