Goodman Estate Law

Under the SECURE Act of 2019 and the IRS Final Regulations issued in 2024, most non-spouse beneficiaries who inherit a traditional IRA must withdraw the entire account within ten years of the original owner’s death. If the original owner had already begun required minimum distributions, the beneficiary must also take annual distributions during years one … Read more

Being named successor trustee in a loved one’s trust is a profound expression of confidence. The person who created the trust believed you were the right person to protect their legacy, manage their assets, and ensure their wishes were carried out with care. That trust is well-placed — but it also comes with significant legal … Read more

Trusts are among the most powerful tools in estate planning, offering flexibility, control, and protection that a simple will cannot provide. But for many California families, the first question is also the most confusing: Should we create a revocable trust or an irrevocable trust? The answer, as with most estate planning questions, depends on your unique … Read more

When a loved one passes away, surviving family members naturally want closure. They want to honor the decedent’s wishes, distribute assets to those entitled to receive them, and move forward with their lives. For families facing probate in Orange County, one question arises above all others: How long is this going to take? The answer, while … Read more

When a loved one passes away, the last thing grieving families need is a lengthy, expensive court process to access what was left behind. In California, the probate system can sometimes impose exactly that burden; unless, however, the estate qualifies for streamlined procedures. Understanding the state’s “small estate” threshold and the options available for avoiding … Read more

Being named as executor in a loved one’s will is an honor—and a significant responsibility. When someone chooses you to handle their final affairs, they trust you to manage their legacy, protect their assets, and ensure their wishes are carried out exactly as intended. In California, this role comes with specific legal duties, strict deadlines, … Read more

Entering a second marriage or blending families is a meaningful chapter in life. However, it introduces complex financial and personal dynamics that a traditional estate plan often fails to address. Without careful and updated planning, your assets may not be distributed according to your current wishes, potentially leading to financial hardship for loved ones and … Read more

For parents, few responsibilities are as fundamental as ensuring your children’s safety and well-being. While planning for the unthinkable is difficult, legally naming a guardian for your minor children in your will is the most critical step you can take to protect their future. Without a clear designation, the decision of who will raise your … Read more

A sudden accident or illness can leave anyone temporarily unable to manage their own affairs. During such a crisis, the focus should be on recovery, not on legal hurdles preventing loved ones from paying bills or communicating with doctors. A well-drafted Power of Attorney (POA) is the foundational document that ensures your financial and healthcare … Read more

Financial exploitation is a serious and growing threat to seniors, resulting in devastating emotional and financial losses for individuals and families each year. This exploitation can take many forms, from sophisticated scams targeting savings to undue influence from someone within a senior’s circle of trust. Proactive legal planning is the most effective defense. At Goodman … Read more