Calabasas elder lawyer

Heir-Raising Concerns? Why a Family Powwow with Your Calabasas Elder Lawyer Might Be the Answer

by Estate Planning

You’ve spent a lifetime building your legacy, but now you’re tossing and turning at night, worried about how your heirs might handle it. As a Calabasas elder lawyer, I’ve sat across the desk from countless clients who share these concerns. They wonder: Will my wishes be respected? Could one of my children challenge my decisions? Might my healthcare choices become a family battleground?

If these thoughts are robbing you of peace, it might be time to consider a family meeting – with a legal twist.

When Family Dynamics Threaten Your Legacy

It’s not uncommon for clients to come to me with fears that their carefully crafted estate plan might unravel due to family discord. I’ve heard worries about a child crying foul, claiming undue influence by siblings, or disagreements over end-of-life care decisions. Some fear challenges to the fairness of asset distribution, while others suspect their appointed executor might mismanage finances.

These worries aren’t unfounded. When emotions run high, even the most loving families can find themselves at odds. That’s where a family meeting, facilitated by your Calabasas elder lawyer, can be a game-changer.

More Than Just a Family Gathering

Now, this isn’t your average family gathering around the dinner table. Think of it as a powerful opportunity to clearly communicate your wishes, address potential conflicts head-on, and provide a forum for questions and concerns. It’s a chance to establish transparency in your planning process and nip misunderstandings in the bud.

The Role of Your Calabasas Elder Lawyer

As your Calabasas elder lawyer, I can guide this meeting to ensure it’s both productive and peaceful. We’ll meet in a neutral setting – our office provides a professional environment that sets the tone for serious discussion. I’ll walk everyone through your estate plan, explaining key decisions and the reasoning behind them. This is crucial because it helps your heirs understand that your choices aren’t arbitrary but well-thought-out.

Legal Backing for Peace of Mind

One of the most valuable aspects of this meeting is the legal backup I can provide. I’ll explain how your wishes are legally documented, reassuring your heirs of the plan’s validity. This can go a long way in preventing future challenges to your estate.

Opening the Floor for Discussion

Of course, questions will arise, and that’s a good thing. We’ll have a Q&A session where family members can ask for clarification. This open dialogue often leads to better understanding and can prevent future conflicts. If disagreements do surface during the meeting, we can address them constructively, potentially avoiding costly and emotionally draining legal battles down the road.

The Lasting Benefits of a Family Meeting

The benefits of such a meeting are immense. It can significantly reduce the likelihood of future estate challenges, provide clarity for all family members, and address misunderstandings before they escalate into conflicts. But perhaps most importantly, it can give you peace of mind, knowing you’ve taken proactive steps to preserve family harmony.

Taking the First Step

If you’re worried about potential conflicts among your heirs, don’t let those concerns fester. As your Calabasas elder lawyer, I’m here to help you navigate these delicate family dynamics. A facilitated family meeting could be the key to ensuring your wishes are understood and respected, while preserving the relationships you hold dear.

When you’re ready, let’s talk about setting up a family meeting. Together, we can work to create understanding, foster communication, and protect your legacy – not just on paper, but in the hearts of your loved ones. To learn more, simply contact our office at 818-334-2805 to schedule a consultation.

North LA County will lawyer

Family Feud: Estate Planning Edition – How to Prevent Your Kids from Fighting Over Your Care in North LA County

by Estate Planning

Have you ever caught yourself thinking, “I love my children, but when it comes to my future care, they’ll probably end up in a battle royale”? You’re not alone. As a North LA County will lawyer, I’ve seen countless families grapple with this exact concern. It’s the elephant in the room that many of us dread addressing: what happens when our adult children can’t see eye to eye on our care decisions?

Picture this: You’re in the hospital, unable to communicate your wishes. Suddenly, your hospital room becomes a war zone. One child insists on aggressive treatment, another advocates for comfort care, and a third is frantically searching for your bank statements. It’s a nightmare scenario that can keep anyone up at night.

The pain of imagining your children fighting over your care is real. It agitates our deepest fears about family harmony and our own vulnerability. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to sit back and wait for chaos to unfold. There are concrete steps you can take right now to prevent this family feud from ever airing.

The Power of Proper Planning

While you may be certain that your family will have conflicts, proactive planning can help mitigate these issues. Here are some crucial steps to consider:

1. Create a Power of Attorney (POA): This legal document allows you to designate someone to make financial and legal decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so.

2. Establish an Advanced Healthcare Directive: This outlines your wishes for medical care and end-of-life decisions, reducing the potential for disagreements about your care.

3. Choose Your Representatives Wisely: The individuals you select for these roles should be people you deeply trust to have your best interests at heart. They should also be capable of handling any family drama that may arise and not buckle under pressure.

Selecting the Right People

When choosing your POA and healthcare proxy, consider these factors:

  • Trust: Select someone who will respect and carry out your wishes, even if they disagree personally.
  • Ability to Handle Conflict: Your chosen representative should be able to stand firm in the face of family disagreements.
  • Communication Skills: They should be able to clearly explain your wishes to other family members and medical professionals.
  • Availability: Choose someone who can realistically take on this responsibility when needed.

Remember, your POA and healthcare proxy don’t have to be the same person. In fact, sometimes it’s better to divide these responsibilities between two trusted individuals.

Open Communication is Key

While legal documents are crucial, open communication with your family can also help prevent conflicts. Consider having a family meeting to discuss your wishes and the reasoning behind your choices. This can help set expectations and reduce surprises later on.

Seek Professional Guidance

Navigating these sensitive family dynamics while planning for your future can be challenging. A North LA County will lawyer can provide invaluable guidance, helping you create a comprehensive plan that reflects your wishes and minimizes the potential for family conflict.

Remember, it’s natural to feel apprehensive about these issues, but taking action now can provide peace of mind for yourself and your loved ones. By clearly outlining your wishes and choosing the right representatives, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of family disputes during difficult times.

If you need assistance in creating an estate plan that addresses your unique family dynamics, we’re here to help. Contact us at 818-334-2805 to schedule an appointment with a North LA County will lawyer. Mention this article when you call, and we’ll be happy to discuss your specific situation and help you create a plan that protects your interests and promotes family harmony.

Calabasas estate lawyer Lisa Golshani explains essential elements to include as you plan for an extended hospice journey.

Estate Planning for a Longer Hospice Journey: What You Need to Know | Calabasas Estate Lawyer

by Estate Planning

Hospice care offers comfort and support during a serious illness, focusing on quality of life rather than curative treatment. While it’s often associated with end-of-life situations, a hospice stay can last for months or even years. This highlights the importance of a flexible estate plan that addresses not only what happens after you pass but also the practicalities of your financial and personal life during an extended hospice journey.

Key Considerations for Hospice Planning

As you embark on an extended hospice journey, here are some essential elements to incorporate into your estate plan:

  • Powers of Attorney: Ensure you have updated and robust powers of attorney for healthcare and finances. Choose trusted individuals who understand your wishes and can manage your affairs if you become unable to do so.
  • Shifting Financial Needs: Your income and expenses are likely to change while on hospice. Your Calabasas estate lawyer can help you adjust your budget, secure appropriate benefits, and protect your assets for the long term.
  • Asset Accessibility: Review how your assets are held (e.g., joint accounts, trusts) to ensure funds are easily accessible for covering ongoing expenses. Your attorney can make the necessary updates for smoother management.
  • Updating Your Will or Trust: If you have an existing will or trust, it’s time for a review. Ensure your designated beneficiaries still reflect your wishes, and address any new concerns that may arise with an extended hospice journey.
  • Planning for In-Home Care: If you prefer to remain at home, your estate plan should factor in any related costs. This might involve home modifications, paying for caregivers, and other expenses. A Calabasas estate lawyer can help you strategize.

The Importance of Professional Guidance

Navigating the legal and financial complexities of an extended hospice journey is challenging. An experienced Calabasas estate lawyer will provide tailored advice and create a plan that adapts to your changing needs. They can offer peace of mind during a difficult time.

If you have questions or need assistance getting started, we invite you to contact our law office today to ensure your plan supports your comfort and well-being throughout your hospice journey. Simply call 818-334-2805 to schedule your consultation.

Calaabasas estate planning attorney

Aid & Attendance Benefits for Wartime Veterans: How to Take Advantage of 2021 Pension Rate Increases to Pay for Long-Term Care

by Estate Planning

Many veterans and their families are unaware of the availability of the Aid and Attendance pension benefit for veterans over the age of 65 through the Department of Veterans Affairs. These benefits can be used to help offset long-term care costs for older veterans who served during a period of war, whether that’s at home or in a care facility.

What Is Aid and Attendance?

Wartime veterans and their spouses who require help performing tasks of everyday living (bathing, dressing, medication management, etc.) may be eligible to receive a non-service connected pension benefit through the VA to help pay for care in their home or a senior living facility. The A&A pension is available to veterans who were honorably discharged after at least 90 days of active duty as well as their surviving spouses.

New Pension Rates for 2021

In 2021, a veteran may receive up to $1,936 per month for themselves, up to $1,244 per month to a surviving spouse, or up to $2,295 per month for a couple. For two veterans who are married and qualify, the benefit amount may be up to $3071 per month.

How to Qualify for Aid and Attendance Benefits

To qualify for Aid and Attendance benefits, the veteran’s physician will need to certify that the individual requires assistance with daily living tasks such as dressing, bathing, cooking, and eating. These are also referred to as ADLs or Activities of Daily Living.

The location or type of care is based primarily upon the need for assistance with ADLs. This assistance can be provided in the individual’s home or a care facility including a nursing home or assisted living facility. An individual living in an independent living situation may also qualify if they need onsite assistance. If the person providing the care is a family member, VA benefits would not apply unless the applicant is paying the family member the same way they would pay a caregiver who is not a relative. The relative caregiver would be responsible for claiming the income on their taxes.

Likewise, there are income and asset limitations that a veteran and/or spouse must meet in order to receive benefits. If the veteran does not initially qualify, an elder law attorney can help the veteran legally reallocate their funds to fall within the government’s guidelines.

If an application for A&A benefits is denied, a reason for the denial will be provided. Rather than appealing the denial, the applicant will need to file a form that allows them to provide additional information. Also, remember that nobody is allowed, under the law, to charge a veteran or their spouse fees for completing or expediting the application or other documents for VA pensions.

More information about the A&A pension, including a benefits calculator, can be found at VeteransAid.org. If you need assistance accessing such benefits for yourself or an older loved one, contact our estate and elder law firm at 818-334-2805.