31Mar 2020 by Pat Geddie
Custody Concerns Stemming from COVID-19

Custody Concerns Stemming from COVID-19

Child Custody
The COVID-19 pandemic is difficult for everyone, though it can be particularly concerning for parents who share custody of their children. It can be nerve-racking to send your child to their other parent’s house, though it is important to stick to your custody order as much as you possibly can while still considering the best interests of your child. Stay-at-home orders should not negate a shared custody order. Parents should never refuse to hand over their child due to stay-at-home orders, though there are some situations in which a custody arrangement may need to be adjusted during this time. Some circumstances include: If the other parent is a healthcare worker or regularly exposed to COVID-19, you might agree to have your child remain living with you during this timeIf your…
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05Mar 2020 by Pat Geddie
The Role of a Successor Trustee

The Role of a Successor Trustee

Uncategorized
Trusts are legal instruments that can benefit people as part of an estate plan. When you create a living trust, you will serve as the trustee while you are alive and have the mental capacity to do so. However, if something happens to you, you will need someone to take over as the successor trustee. It is important to understand this individual’s role so you can designate the right person. Administering the Trust There are many tasks involved in administering a trust following someone's death, and the specific responsibilities will vary depending on the circumstances of the trust. Some responsibilities might include: Managing the trust property, including making investment decisionsPaying all necessary bills and taxes from the trustKeeping beneficiaries informed of the state of the trust propertyDistributing trust property to…
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05Feb 2020 by Pat Geddie
Is Your Spouse Hiding Assets?

Is Your Spouse Hiding Assets?

Divorce
In a divorce case, California law requires that spouses divide all community property equally. This means that absent a valid prenuptial agreement, you are entitled to half of the total property and assets you acquired during your marriage. While this seems like a fairly straightforward requirement, many spouses might try to conceal assets or engage in other deceptive tactics to try to keep more than their fair share in a divorce. There are different ways your spouse might try to hide assets in your divorce, such as: Failing to disclose certain accounts or propertyDevaluing property or understating asset values Understating or delaying incomeMaking large purchasesGiving away assets to others until after the divorceMoving assets to secret accounts Fair divorce outcomes are dependent on open and honest disclosures regarding income, property,…
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30Dec 2019 by Pat Geddie
Choosing Your Power of Attorney

Choosing Your Power of Attorney

Power of Attorney
The power of attorney document is an important aspect of any comprehensive estate plan. While a will protects your estate after you pass away, a power of attorney protects your interests and finances should you become unable to manage your affairs yourself. Your power of attorney gives significant authority and access to the individual you choose, so you should give careful consideration to your designation. Family Members Many people want a close family member to be in charge of their affairs if they become incapacitated. For example, many spouses have the other one as their power of attorney. This can make sense because your spouse often knows your affairs better than almost anyone else. However, you need to make sure that you change your power of attorney if you get…
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21Nov 2019 by Pat Geddie
Preparing for a Divorce Case

Preparing for a Divorce Case

Divorce
Most people do not get married while anticipating a divorce case down the road. However, many people might have a feeling that divorce is in their future before a case is filed. If you are in this situation, there are some things you can do to prepare for a possible divorce. Gather Important Documents It is important to have a picture of your financial situation going into a divorce. Further, when your spouse learns about the divorce, they might try to make it difficult for you to access certain records or information. In advance, it is wise to gather the following (among any other relevant documents): Bank statementsInvestment accountsCredit card and loan statementsSocial security cards and birth certificates for the whole familyInventory of personal propertyTitles and deedsRetirement accountsPay statements for…
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