Comprehensive Estate Planning Services

Estate planning is about more than just documents—it's about ensuring your wishes are honored and your loved ones are protected. Whether you're just starting a family, approaching retirement, or managing a complex estate, having a proper plan in place provides peace of mind and security for the future.

Alex Craig Law provides compassionate, personalized estate planning services to families throughout California's Central Coast and Central Valley. With experience as in-house counsel and a deep understanding of both business and family needs, Alex takes a thoughtful approach to help you create a plan that truly reflects your values and goals.

Wills

A will is the foundation of any estate plan. It allows you to:

  • Designate who receives your assets after you pass
  • Name a guardian for minor children
  • Appoint an executor to manage your estate
  • Specify your wishes for personal property
  • Minimize family disputes by providing clear instructions

Trusts

Trusts offer flexibility and control that wills alone cannot provide. Benefits of trusts include:

  • Avoiding Probate - Assets in a trust pass directly to beneficiaries
  • Privacy - Unlike wills, trusts are not public record
  • Tax Planning - Certain trusts can minimize estate taxes
  • Asset Protection - Protect assets from creditors or divorce
  • Special Needs Planning - Provide for loved ones without affecting benefits
  • Business Succession - Smooth transition of family businesses

Revocable Living Trusts

A revocable living trust is one of the most versatile estate planning tools. It allows you to maintain full control of your assets during your lifetime while ensuring a smooth, private transfer to your beneficiaries without the delays and costs of probate.

Probate

When a loved one passes away, the probate process can be overwhelming. Alex Craig Law guides families through every step, including:

  • Filing the will with the court
  • Inventorying and valuing assets
  • Paying debts and taxes
  • Distributing assets to beneficiaries
  • Resolving disputes among heirs

Additional Estate Planning Services

  • Powers of Attorney - Designate someone to manage financial affairs if you become incapacitated
  • Healthcare Directives - Document your medical wishes and appoint a healthcare agent
  • Beneficiary Designations - Ensure retirement accounts and insurance align with your plan
  • Estate Plan Reviews - Update existing plans after major life changes

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a trust or is a will enough?

It depends on your situation. A will may be sufficient for simple estates, but a trust offers significant advantages including probate avoidance, privacy, and more control over asset distribution. During your consultation, we'll discuss your specific needs and recommend the best approach.

How often should I update my estate plan?

You should review your estate plan every 3-5 years or after major life events such as marriage, divorce, birth of a child, significant changes in assets, or moving to a new state.

What happens if I die without a will in California?

If you die without a will (intestate), California law determines who inherits your assets based on your family relationships. This may not align with your wishes and can create complications and delays for your loved ones.