Estate Planning Lawyer in Oxnard, CA Putting Clients First

As an estate planning lawyer in Oxnard, CA, I am dedicated to helping clients achieve their legal goals. I understand that estate planning can be a complex and sensitive topic, which is why I take the time to get to know each of my clients and their unique circumstances. I then work with them to create a customized plan that meets their estate planning needs and puts their best interests first.

Whether you are looking to create a will or trust, or you need help with probate or estate administration, I can provide the experienced legal guidance you need. I also assist clients with elder law matters, such as long-term care planning and special needs planning. No matter what your legal needs may be, I am here to assist you. Call the Law Offices of Eric Ridley today at (805) 244-5291 for a free initial strategy session and get the help you deserve.

What Does Estate Planning Consist Of?

Estate planning is proactive. Detailed and thorough planning protects your assets, limits exposure to estate taxes, helps your heirs and beneficiaries avoid probate, and can help ensure that your wishes are carried out.

I begin with an analysis of your existing income, assets, insurance, wants, and needs. I then consider a wide range of estate planning tools beginning with wills, living wills, durable powers of attorney, and simple revocable or irrevocable trusts.

As I develop a better understanding of your existing situation and your goals, I may recommend:

  • Specialized trusts, including special needs trusts, charitable remainder trusts, and living trusts
  • Limited partnerships or family limited partnerships, resulting in a division of interests that reduces the value of the estate for tax purposes. These can be used effectively to transfer ownership of vineyards, orchards, agricultural property, and small businesses to the next generation.
  • Limited Liability Companies (LLCs), can reduce transfer costs and limit gift taxation when certain assets are likely to be transferred to a giftee on a regular basis
  • Annual gifting programs, when carefully planned in advance, can minimize the value of your estate that may be subject to tax

When Should I Create an Estate Plan?

An estate plan is not just for the elderly. Everyone can and should have an estate plan, regardless of their age or health. The best time to create an estate plan is now – before a crisis strikes. If you wait until you are sick or incapacitated, it may be difficult for you and your family. As a knowledgeable Oxnard estate planning lawyer, I can help you protect your assets and ensure that your wishes are carried out. I know how delicate these matters can be and I aim to arm you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about your future.

Can Estate Planning Lawyers Help Me Modify an Existing Estate Plan?

Estate planning is an ongoing process that should be reviewed and updated as your circumstances change. I can help you modify your existing estate plan to reflect any changes in your life, such as the birth of a child, the death of a spouse, a divorce, or a change in your financial situation.

If you have questions about modifying an existing estate plan, call today to see how I can help you modify your existing estate plan.

What Goes Into a Great Estate Plan?

There is no such thing as a "perfect" estate plan for everyone. The right estate plan is one that fits your needs. If your estate plan does one or all of the following, it can be beneficial to create:

  • Protect your spouse and minor children. Make sure they have enough money to not struggle
  • Ensure that your children are raised by the people you choose, not who the government chooses
  • Make sure your assets are protected for your heirs, not for the government
  • Keep your affairs private
  • Pass your values on to your heirs
  • Avoid Probate
  • Avoid Estate Taxes

Estate planning is not just for the rich. Protecting your property and making sure that your assets are distributed based on what's best for your family is critical for just about everyone.

Contact the Law Office of Eric Ridley Today for Compassionate and Helpful Service

I provide affordable, solid family protection by partnering with you to design wills and trusts to protect your family - in Ventura County, Santa Barbara County, Los Angeles County, and Kern County. I provide concrete, practical, and cost-effective estate planning advice so you can protect your loved ones and manage your legacy. I am pleased to be able to assist LGBT couples with the formation of domestic partnerships, community property issues, and other legal strategies to protect their relationships.

In particular, I recommend that every LGBT couple have, at a minimum, a durable medical power of attorney and HIPAA waivers in place. The last thing you want is to have any doubt about whether your partner has the right to make medical decisions on your behalf should you be unable to do so. Having an appropriate medical power of attorney reduces that anxiety. Call the Law Offices of Eric Ridley today at (805) 244-5291 for a free initial strategy session and get the help you deserve.