Estate Planning Blog
Plain-English articles on California wills, trusts, probate, and estate planning from attorney William Ha.
Can More Californians Say Goodbye To A Formal Probate?
California's AB 2016 raised the small-estate probate thresholds, so a primary residence worth up to $750,000 can now skip formal probate.
Using the California Statutory Will
California offers a free, fill-in-the-blank Statutory Will, here's what it can and can't do.
Remember When You Named Your 20 Year Old Girlfriend As a Beneficiary? He Didn't Either.
A retirement account went to an ex he hadn't spoken to in decades, a reminder that beneficiary designations override your will.
Medi-Cal and Your Assets: What Changed for 2026
California eliminated the Medi-Cal asset limit, then reinstated it for 2026, and here's where the rules stand and how a living trust can still avoid estate recovery.
When Your Personal Name Is Now Sensitive Information
How public county records expose homeowners to solicitation and scams, and how holding property in a trust restores privacy.
Bored To Death? It's Likely A Good Thing. Embrace It.
Explore how embracing mortality and appreciating everyday moments can lead to a more meaningful life.
What’s the Difference Between a Will and a Trust?
A plain-English comparison of wills and trusts in California, and why only a trust keeps your estate out of probate.
The Most Important Planning Document Costs Nothing to Draft
California's Advance Health Care Directive lets you name who speaks for your care, and it costs nothing to complete.
Bruce Willis and Aphasia: Why Everyone Should Plan for Incapacity
Bruce Willis's dementia diagnosis is a reminder to plan for incapacity with an Advance Health Care Directive and Durable Power of Attorney.
What Happens When You Die With $1 Billion, With No Estate Planning
Zappos CEO Tony Hsieh died with a $500M fortune and no estate plan, a lesson in why a will alone won't avoid probate, and why incapacity planning matters.
Protect what matters most to your family
Book your 15-minute discovery call today. It’s free, with no obligation.