Start by listing what you want your plan to accomplish. Consider who should receive property and who could carry out responsibilities if you cannot. Identify questions rather than trying to choose every document in advance.
Gather existing planning documents
Bring prior wills, trusts, amendments, powers of attorney, and advance directives. Let counsel know if you are uncertain whether a document was signed or later replaced. Keep originals secure.
Prepare an ownership overview
List major assets and how they are titled. Include deeds and general account information without sending passwords or unnecessary account details through email. Existing beneficiary designations and ownership arrangements should be discussed with counsel.
Think about implementation
Ask what steps would be needed after documents are prepared and signed. The California Courts provides introductory information about wills, trusts, and planning documents; the appropriate plan still depends on your circumstances. Review your goals and questions with counsel.
Planning includes how assets are held
California Courts notes that the type and ownership of property affect what transfer process may be available after death. For planning, this makes an accurate ownership inventory a useful starting point. Bring deeds and account descriptions so counsel can compare the plan with how assets are actually held.
Does having a signed document finish every planning task?
Ask counsel what implementation steps are needed for each asset and who will complete them. Keep a checklist of unresolved ownership and beneficiary questions, rather than assuming every account is covered in the same way. Revisit the plan when family circumstances or major assets change.
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Related articles
- California Probate: Documents After a Family Death
- California Trust and Probate Consultation: Questions