Question 1

Do I really need an estate plan?

Accepted Answer

Yes — and sooner than most people think. If you own property, have a bank account, or have children, you need an estate plan. Without one, the state decides who receives your assets and who raises your kids. A basic will or trust takes the guesswork out of those decisions and protects the people you love.

Question 2

What is the difference between a will and a living trust?

Accepted Answer

A will takes effect after you die and must go through probate — a public court process that can take months or years and cost thousands of dollars. A living trust takes effect immediately, avoids probate entirely, keeps your affairs private, and allows your assets to transfer to your beneficiaries quickly and without court involvement. For most families, a living trust is the more powerful option.

Question 3

How much does an estate plan cost?

Accepted Answer

We charge flat fees — so you know exactly what you're paying before we begin. There are no billable hours, no surprise invoices, and no hidden costs. Our pricing is designed to make professional estate planning accessible to real families, not just the wealthy. Contact us for a quote based on your specific needs.

Question 4

How long does the process take?

Accepted Answer

Most estate plans are completed within two to four weeks from your initial consultation. The timeline depends on the complexity of your plan and how quickly we receive the information we need from you. We work at your pace and keep you informed every step of the way.

Question 5

Do I need to come into an office?

Accepted Answer

No. Our entire process is remote. We handle everything by phone, email, and secure document sharing — so you can complete your estate plan from the comfort of your home, no matter where you live in the country.

Question 6

Who actually prepares my documents?

Accepted Answer

To keep our services affordable without sacrificing quality, our experienced paralegals prepare all documents first. A licensed California attorney then reviews and gives final approval to every plan before it reaches you. You get attorney-quality work at a price that makes sense for your family.

Question 7

What happens during the free consultation?

Accepted Answer

The consultation is a 20-minute conversation — by phone or video — where we learn about your family, your assets, and your goals. We'll explain your options, answer your questions, and give you a clear picture of what your estate plan should include. There's no pressure and no obligation.

Question 8

What information do I need to provide?

Accepted Answer

We'll ask for basic information about your family (spouse, children, other dependents), your assets (real estate, bank accounts, retirement accounts, life insurance), and your wishes (who should receive what, who should be in charge, who should care for your children). We guide you through every question — you don't need to prepare anything in advance.

Question 9

Can I make changes after my documents are drafted?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We review all documents with you before finalization and make revisions until you're completely satisfied. After your plan is complete, you can update it at any time — life changes, and your estate plan should too.

Question 10

How do I sign my documents?

Accepted Answer

Most estate planning documents require a notary and witnesses to be legally valid. We provide detailed instructions on exactly how to execute your documents correctly. In many cases, we can coordinate remote notarization so you never have to leave home.

Question 11

What is probate and why should I avoid it?

Accepted Answer

Probate is the court-supervised process of distributing a deceased person's estate. It is public record, can take 12–24 months, and typically costs 3–8% of the estate's gross value in attorney and court fees. A properly funded living trust bypasses probate entirely — your beneficiaries receive their inheritance faster, privately, and at far less cost.

Question 12

What is a "pour-over will" and do I need one?

Accepted Answer

A pour-over will works alongside your living trust to capture any assets that weren't transferred into the trust during your lifetime. It acts as a safety net — ensuring that everything you own eventually ends up in your trust and is distributed according to your wishes. If you have a living trust, you should also have a pour-over will.

Question 13

Can I name a guardian for my children in my will?

Accepted Answer

Yes — and this is one of the most important reasons for parents to have a will. Without a named guardian, a court will decide who raises your children. Your will lets you designate the person you trust most to care for them, and you can name an alternate in case your first choice is unable to serve.

Question 14

What assets does a living trust cover?

Accepted Answer

A living trust covers assets that are formally transferred into it — a process called "funding the trust." This typically includes real estate, bank accounts, investment accounts, and business interests. Assets like retirement accounts (IRAs, 401(k)s) and life insurance policies pass by beneficiary designation and are handled separately. We help you understand which assets belong in the trust and which don't.

Question 15

What is a durable power of attorney?

Accepted Answer

A durable power of attorney authorizes a person you trust — your "agent" — to manage your financial and legal affairs if you become incapacitated. Without one, your family may need to go to court to obtain a conservatorship, which is expensive, time-consuming, and public. A durable power of attorney prevents that entirely.

Question 16

What is an advance healthcare directive?

Accepted Answer

An advance healthcare directive (also called a living will or healthcare proxy) tells your doctors and family what medical treatment you want — or don't want — if you're ever unable to speak for yourself. It also names a healthcare agent to make decisions on your behalf. It's one of the most compassionate things you can do for your family.

Question 17

What is a HIPAA authorization and why do I need one?

Accepted Answer

A HIPAA authorization allows your designated family members and agents to access your medical records and communicate with your healthcare providers. Without it, doctors may be legally prohibited from sharing information with your spouse or children — even in an emergency. It's a simple document that can make a critical difference.

Question 18

Can I revoke a power of attorney or healthcare directive?

Accepted Answer

Yes. As long as you are mentally competent, you can revoke or update any of these documents at any time. We recommend reviewing your estate plan every three to five years — or after any major life event such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or a significant change in assets.

Question 19

Are you licensed to practice in my state?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our attorneys are licensed in California and authorized to prepare estate planning documents for clients in all 50 states. Estate planning documents — wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives — are governed by the laws of the state where you live, and we ensure your documents comply with your state's specific requirements.

Question 20

I live outside California. Can you still help me?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We serve clients across the entire country. Our fully remote process means your location is never a barrier. Whether you're in New York, Texas, Florida, or anywhere in between, we can prepare a legally valid estate plan tailored to your state's laws.

Question 21

What if my situation is complicated — blended family, business ownership, special needs child?

Accepted Answer

Complex situations are exactly where professional guidance matters most. We regularly work with blended families, business owners, clients with special needs dependents, and high-net-worth individuals with multi-state property. Schedule a free consultation and we'll walk you through the options that make sense for your specific circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Getting Started

Your Family Deserves a Plan.