Empowering You And Your Loved Ones With A Tailored Estate Plan
Last updated on September 9, 2024
Estate planning is something everyone should consider. It’s an empowering process that allows you to establish your own legacy, provide for your loved ones and take charge of your financial affairs.
At the Law Offices of Berge & Berge, we understand not only the legal underpinnings of estate planning but also the emotional and financial ramifications. We focus solely on estate and elder law in the South Bay area.
Our lead attorney, James Berge, brings over 25 years of experience to the table. He has exceptional credentials as a Certified Public Accountant (inactive) and a board-certified specialist in estate planning, trust and probate law through the California Board of Legal Specialization. Additionally, he holds an LL.M. (advanced law degree) in tax law. When you work with our team in San Jose, you will benefit from our team’s wealth of experience, knowledge and insight into the intricacies of tax and estate law.
Why Do You Need An Estate Plan?
An estate plan is your blueprint for the future. It’s about more than just who inherits what. It’s also about having peace of mind, avoiding family conflicts, preparing for life’s unknowns, minimizing tax burdens and making your wishes legally enforceable.
Creating an estate plan is an act of compassion for both yourself and your family. A proactive approach will eliminate the guesswork for your loved ones. When you’ve laid out clear instructions for how you want your affairs handled – and put the right legal tools in place to do so – your family won’t have to make tough decisions on your behalf or seek unnecessary court involvement.
Essential Estate Planning Tools To Consider
A customized estate plan should give you both financial security and peace of mind. It should include a variety of tools designed to fit your life’s unique puzzle pieces together.
Our estate lawyers can help you put the right tools into place. They understand the nuances of every facet of estate planning, including:
- Wills
- Trusts of all kinds, such as revocable living trusts, irrevocable trusts, charitable trusts and testamentary trusts
- Powers of attorney for finances and health care
- Advance health care directives (living wills)
- Strategic real estate titling, such as joint tenancy
- Family limited partnerships
- Beneficiary designations
- Guardianship designations
- Planning for a loved one with special needs
- Retirement planning
- Disability planning
- California Medi-Cal (Medicaid) planning
- Asset protection
Each tool serves a specific purpose and must adhere to certain criteria. Our team can evaluate your situation and provide guidance on the right approach.
Craft Your Legacy With Confidence
Estate planning is a profound responsibility, and when you work with us, it’s one we’ll take to heart. Our estate planning attorneys will ensure that your estate plan reflects your wishes. They can address all aspects of your estate with sensitivity, foresight and strategic consideration.
Whether you’re exploring will planning, setting up trusts or any other aspect of estate planning, reach out to us at 669-244-3546 to start the conversation.