Foster City Probate, Trust and Estate Planning, and Civil Litigation Attorney

foster city, california

Foster City has witnessed a more than 10% increase in population over the last decade. Often considered part of Silicon Valley, Foster City is one of the safest metropolitan areas in the United States. As new residents and families flock here for its mild climate and abundant recreational activities, it’s important to give consideration to long-term trust and estate planning. Enlist the services of Loew Law Group, PLC. We represent Foster City clients in all types of probate, trust and estate planning, and civil litigation matters.

A Comprehensive Estate Plan To Protect Your Family In Foster City, California

What would happen to your property if you were to pass away without warning? If you’re in charge of a family business and suddenly find yourself incapacitated, who would take over? While it’s tempting to put off thinking about questions like these, the reality is that tragedy can strike at any moment. The best way to prepare yourself and your family is to adopt a comprehensive estate plan.

Last Will and Testament

The first step is executing a last will and testament. A will instructs your executor how to distribute your assets and pay your final expenses after you die. This important document can also be used to name a guardian to care for your minor children if you and the other parent pass away at the same time.

Trust

Next on your list should be a trust. Some people mistakenly believe that trusts are only for the wealthy. But the truth is, this instrument can provide financial support for your family, avoid the costly probate process, and minimize estate taxes. Most people use revocable and irrevocable trusts, both of which have distinct advantages and drawbacks. Talk to a knowledgeable lawyer about a trust today.

Estate planning can be used for businesses as well. A business succession plan can ensure that the right people will run your company if you pass away or become incapacitated. An attorney can review your organization’s operations and draft a succession plan that is specifically tailored for it.

Living Will, Durable Power of Attorney, and Advance Medical Directive

The living will, durable power of attorney, and advance medical directive are three similar instruments to help manage your health and personal affairs in the event you are unable to. For instance, you can use these documents to name a trusted person to take over financial matters if you suddenly fall into a coma. Each one of these serves a unique purpose and should be considered in your overall estate plan.

Conservatorship

Finally, do you worry about the well-being of a family member who has begun to show physical or mental limitations? A conservatorship may be an option. This instrument can provide care for a loved one who is unable to meet their own daily needs.

Are You Involved In Civil Litigation?

No matter how detailed or properly drafted an estate plan is, a lawsuit is always possible. A potential heir may have been wrongly excluded from a will. A beneficiary may not like how the trustee or executor is handling the estate. Issues such as these, and many more, can spark civil litigation.

Our law firm represents both plaintiffs and defendants in a wide variety of civil litigation claims, including:

  • Lawsuits alleging undue influence
  • Claims of executor or trustee mismanagement
  • Alleged breaches of fiduciary duty
  • Concerns about undue influence and fraud
  • Heirs who believe they were improperly left out of a will

We’re prepared to fight for you, regardless of whether you’ve been accused of wrongdoing or you need to take legal action against another party. Our civil litigation team works to resolve lawsuits where possible through mediation and other alternative dispute resolution tactics. Where needed, however, we can take your matter to court.

You’ve Been Named A Trustee – Now What?

Being named a trustee is a huge honor, but it’s also a massive responsibility. Trustees are legally obligated to abide by certain fiduciary duties. For example, they must put the interests of beneficiaries above their own and avoid self-dealing. If you fail to fulfill these obligations, even unwittingly, you could be subjected to a lawsuit.

Loew Law Group regularly advises trustees on how to properly administer trusts in accordance with the law. We can review the details of the trust, help you administer it responsibly, and review your responsibilities in doing so.

Legal Action To Stop Elder Abuse

The elderly are frequent targets of con artists, scammers, and other dishonest characters. Unfortunately, elder abuse often occurs at the hands of dishonest relatives who exploit their relationships with elderly family members.

Civil litigation may be necessary to stop and reverse the effects of elder abuse. Ask our team how to put an end to the abuse and demand restitution for any losses.

Walking You Through The Probate Process In Foster City, California

Some estate plans can avoid probate, but many must go through this court-administered process. Probate can be expensive and time-consuming, but the right attorney can minimize costs and expeditiously probate the estate so it can be closed. If you’re an estate administrator, executor, or personal representative, ask about Loew Law Group’s probate practice.

Contact Our Foster City Probate, Trust and Estate Planning, and Civil Litigation Attorney

Trust and estate planning, probate, and civil litigation invoke a number of different laws and court rules. They also raise practical and strategic considerations. You deserve a law firm that is well-versed in these matters and dedicated to representing your best interests from start to finish. Schedule your consultation with Loew Law Group, PLC today.