Sacramento Estate Planning Attorneys
Create YOUR Lasting Legacy With a Personalized Estate Plan
- Estate Planning
- Living Trust
- Durable Power of Attorney
- HIPPA Authorization Form
- Living Will & Pour Over Wills & More
- FREE 60min In-Person Consultation
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Experienced Sacramento Estate Planning Lawyers
Peace of Mind When Your Family Needs It Most
At California Probate and Trust, we are a specialized estate planning law firm that creates robust trusts and comprehensive succession plans with meticulous attention to every detail. We treat each plan as if it were for our own family, minimizing probate complications and addressing potential legal disputes with tailored strategies. Without proper estate planning, your loved ones may face a lengthy, expensive, and emotionally draining probate process during an already difficult time.
Our collaborative approach includes in-depth meetings that ensure you understand every element of your trust and estate plan before finalizing details. With some of the most detailed estate planning packages in the industry, we demonstrate our commitment to excellence and to protecting your family’s future.
Trusted Sacramento Estate Planning Services
How We Help Secure Your Family's Future
At California Probate and Trust, PC, we protect your family with simple, effective estate planning tools tailored to your unique needs. Our services include comprehensive Trust Administration, Living Trusts that help avoid probate, and Durable Power of Attorney documents that ensure trusted decision-making when needed.
We also create clear Advance Healthcare Directives and Living Wills that outline your medical wishes during critical moments, sparing your family from difficult choices during challenging times. Our compassionate guidance and proven estate planning tools provide security and peace of mind for your family’s future.
Why Choose Us
100% Free Consultation
Our 1-hour initial consultation is always FREE. Schedule yours today!
Flat-Fee Billing
No hourly billing; no surprises. Simple and easy-to-understand estate planning services.
Decades of Combined Experience
3 Specialized lawyers ready to assist you.
Client Satisfaction
With more than 300+ Google reviews. Our clients are at the heart of what we do and their satisfaction is our top priority.
Top Rated Sacramento Estate Attorney Near Me
Success Stories from Our Estate Planning Clients
Discover why over 300+ clients have given us glowing five-star Google reviews. At California Probate and Trust, PC, we put your needs first with a client-centered approach that makes estate planning clear and stress-free, listening with compassion and understanding to each family’s unique situation.
We take pride in guiding Sacramento families through important decisions with patience and expertise, providing personalized service that truly makes a difference. Don’t just take our word for it—see what your neighbors are saying, then contact us today to experience the same peace of mind for your family.
Sacramento Estate Planning FAQ's
What is the purpose of having an estate plan?
The purpose of an estate plan is to protect your assets and provide clear instructions on how you want your affairs handled after you are gone. It helps reduce stress for your loved ones during a difficult time.
Who benefits most from an estate attorney?
Anyone who wants to protect their assets and ensure their loved ones are cared for benefits from estate planning. It is especially valuable for families, business owners, and individuals with significant assets.
What happens if you don't do estate planning?
Without estate planning, your assets may be distributed according to state law, which might not align with your wishes. Your family could face delays, disputes, and unnecessary legal costs.
Is estate planning worth it?
Yes, estate planning is worth it because it provides peace of mind and ensures that your wishes are followed. It helps prevent family conflicts and reduces potential legal issues.
Do I need a will or estate plan?
A will is a key part of an estate plan, but estate planning also includes other documents that can better protect your interests. Together, they ensure that your assets and decisions are managed as you wish.
Is estate planning only for the wealthy?
Estate planning is not just for the wealthy; it benefits anyone who wants to protect their loved ones and make sure their wishes are known. Everyone, regardless of asset size, can benefit from having a clear plan.
Who would be the best executor of an estate?
The best executor is someone you trust to handle your affairs, such as a close family member or a trusted friend. They should be organized, fair, and capable of managing the responsibilities involved.
Do you work with blended families?
Yes, we work with blended families and specialize in navigating their unique complexities. Rest assured, our expertise ensures that every family member’s interests are carefully considered and protected.
Why is having a will or trust important?
A will or trust gives you control over who inherits your assets and helps ensure that your wishes are honored after you pass. Without one, state law determines asset distribution, which might not align with your goals. It also helps protect your loved ones by simplifying what can otherwise be a lengthy legal process.
What is the difference between a will and a trust?
A will is a document that only takes effect after you die and sets out how your assets will be distributed, while a trust can be established during your lifetime and can also manage your assets if you become incapacitated. Trusts generally allow assets to bypass the probate process, often saving time and expense.
What is a living trust, and how can it benefit me?
A living trust (also known as a revocable trust) is created during your lifetime and allows you to transfer ownership of your assets into the trust while still managing them. In California, this tool is popular because it helps your beneficiaries receive assets directly without going through probate, ensuring a smoother and faster transfer.
Does California have an estate tax or inheritance tax?
California does not have a state estate or inheritance tax. However, very large estates may be subject to federal estate tax, which applies only if your estate exceeds the federal threshold. Most estates in California are not affected by these taxes.
Will my heirs owe taxes on the assets they inherit?
In most cases, heirs do not pay income tax on the assets they inherit. The assets typically receive a “step-up” in tax basis, which can reduce any future capital gains tax if the assets are sold. Nonetheless, some tax issues may arise with retirement accounts or other specific assets.
Will my children face higher property taxes if they inherit my home?
In California, transferring real estate can lead to a property tax reassessment at the current market value. Recent changes mean that children inheriting a home may keep the lower tax rate only if they make the home their primary residence and if the property value falls within a specific limit.
How often should I update my estate plan?
It’s wise to review your estate plan every few years or whenever a major life event occurs—such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or significant changes in your financial situation. Regular reviews help ensure your documents reflect your current wishes and comply with any changes in the law.
How should I begin the estate planning process?
Start by taking an inventory of your assets and thinking about how you want them distributed. Decide who will be your beneficiaries, executor, trustee, and agents for any powers of attorney. Then, consider consulting with professionals at California Probate and Trust, PC, who can guide you through creating a comprehensive plan that reflects your wishes and protects your legacy.