What are the different types of estate planning documents?

When it comes to estate planning in California, there are a few different types of documents you may need. The most common documents used in estate planning are wills, trusts, advanced health care directives, and powers of attorney. A will is a legal document that allows you to specify how your assets will be distributed upon your death. It is important to note that without a will, the state of California will decide how your estate is distributed. A trust is a legal arrangement in which one person holds legal title to a property for the benefit of another. A trust can be used to provide for the care of a minor, protect assets, or reduce taxes. An advanced health care directive is a document that allows you to specify the type of healthcare you would like to receive in the event of a medical emergency. Finally, a power of attorney is a document that authorizes one person to make decisions or take action on behalf of another. This document allows you to appoint someone you trust to make decisions or take action on your behalf if you become incapacitated. These are the most common estate planning documents used in California. Establishing an estate plan is important, as it can help ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes and that your rights are protected in the event of an emergency. It is important to seek the advice of an experienced estate planning attorney if you have questions about which documents are right for you.

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