Draft your living will and last will and testament A will is essential at every stage of your life. Your living will sets the parameters for medical intervention should you become incapacitated. This assures that when you are most vulnerable, your wishes will be honored. Your last will provides the opportunity to distribute your property, establish care for your children and otherwise express your wishes upon your death. A will is necessary if you intend to leave property to a person or entity other than a blood relative, such as a domestic partner, a friend or a charity. If you die without a will, the court determines how your property is distributed, who cares for your children and even what happens to your pet – making decisions that might not reflect your desires. The Law Office of Donald W. Bicknell can draft valid wills that ensure your intentions are honored. Changing your will As your life changes, so might your estate plan. You may need to update your will throughout your life. Attorneys Donald W. Bicknell and Laurence S. Ross _draft valid codicils that address changes in your financial situation, marital status, number of children, philanthropic interests and general lifestyle decisions. Appointment of guardianship If you have minor children, your will allows you to make decisions about their future care. This is especially crucial if you are a single parent or if both parents die in a common incident. If you do not name a guardian, the court will appoint a guardian for your children and can make decisions adverse to your ultimate parenting goals. You can also make arrangements for your pets’ care in your will, including naming a guardian to take responsibility for your pets. Probate The process of probate typically accompanies a painful emotional loss. The knowledgeable, meticulous probate attorneys at the Law Office of Donald W. Bicknell can ease the stress of probating the estate. They assist executors in all steps of the complex process of probating a will in California probate court, including:
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Probate disputes The stress of a probate dispute can compound the pain of losing a loved one. When disputes arise, the firm’s attorneys’ composed courtroom demeanor can calm the emotionally charged process of challenging an invalid will or defending a valid will against erroneous claims made by unhappy beneficiaries. If you choose to preserve amiable family relationships, the firm’s attorneys can skillfully mediate disputes to reach just, equitable resolutions with your loved ones. When necessary, they assertively defend your beneficiary rights within the California probate court. Contact trusts, wills and probate lawyers you can trust at the Law Office of Donald W. Bicknell For thorough and professional legal service throughout Eureka, call the Law Office of Donald W. Bicknell at 480-756-2224 or contact the firm online. | _PRACTICE AREAS
Family Law Wills, Trusts and Probate General Civil Litigation Law Office of Donald W. Bicknell 732 Fifth Street, Suite H Eureka, California 95502 Phone: 707-443-0878 Fax: 707-443-2429 Contact Us | Location |