Helene P.Dreyer Koch is an estate planning attorney in Indian Wells, California, focusing on Wills, Trusts and Probate. She is also a skilled legal writer and dynamic public speaker. (760) 360-2400.
Tag Archives: last will and testament
An Example of What Can Go Wrong When You Make Your Own Will.
Do-it-yourself Wills: a sad story of planning gone wrong. Here is a case study by Janet L. Brewer, detailing some of the bad things that can happen when you make your own Will. Read about John, widow and father, faced … Continue reading
Posted in Wills
Tagged do it yourself wills, estate planning, last will and testament, make your own will, will
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Favorite Estate Planning Quotes: #1
Quotation No. 1: “I want to leave my children enough that they feel they can do anything, but not so much that they do nothing.” ~ Warren Buffet
What is the difference between an Executor and a Trustee?
The “Executor” and the “Trustee” are similar in some ways, but very different in others. An “Executor” only acts if someone has died. The Executor can be nominated by the deceased person, but that selection must be approved by the … Continue reading
Posted in Trusts, Wills
Tagged executor, last will and testament, trustee, trusts, wills
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What Happens to My Will When I Die?
When someone dies, the original of that person’s Will must be deposited with the Probate Court. The Will becomes a public record and anyone can ask to read it. If all of the deceased person’s property is in a … Continue reading
Posted in Wills
Tagged last will and testament, Probate Court, reading of the will, wills
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Why Do I Need a Will If I Have a Trust?
Having a Will even if you have a Trust is like having a safety net. It is very common for people to accidentally leave something out of their Trust. A good example is the home. People buy a new home, … Continue reading
Posted in Trusts, Wills
Tagged estate planning, inheritance, last will and testament, probate, trust
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What Does a Last Will & Testament Do?
A Last Will & Testament can be used to nominate a guardian for minors; appoint an executor to handle your final affairs; and direct final disposition of your assets. Most people know what a Will is, but many are confused … Continue reading
Posted in Wills
Tagged executor, guardianship, last will and testament, probate, will
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Do I Really Need an Estate Plan?
Estate Planning is not just for the wealthy. An estate plan does more than simply pass on your assets. It names someone to care for your assets and pay your bills if you become incapacitated. It names guardians for minor … Continue reading
Posted in Consider This
Tagged Do I need a trust, estate plan, last will and testament, living will
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What Does “Estate Planning” Mean?
What is Estate Planning? Estate Planning means several things, but it generally refers to planning for events following your death or incapacity. It means making very important decisions – about your loved ones and about yourself. Most estate plans include … Continue reading
What is Probate Court?
Probate is a division of the County Superior Court. The court system in California begins with county level “trial courts.” These are the courts most familiar to people. This is where trials occur, jury service is performed, divorces are granted, … Continue reading
Posted in Probate Court - Overview
Tagged estate planning, Judge, last will and testament, probate, Probate Court
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Want a Peek at Some Interesting Wills?
Ever wonder what’s in other people’s Wills? Some very famous people have died with Wills that make for interesting reading – Thomas Jefferson, Howard Hughes, Leona Helmsley and Michael Jackson, to name but a few. If you’re curious, try these … Continue reading
