For Hillsborough and Burlingame families, planning that looks ahead a generation.
For families with significant homes and investments on the Peninsula, the questions go beyond avoiding probate: how to reduce estate tax, protect what children inherit and keep control where it belongs.
When an estate may exceed the federal exemption
California has no state estate tax, but the federal estate tax can reach 40% of the value above the exemption. Spousal lifetime access trusts (SLATs), lifetime gifting and coordinated beneficiary designations may reduce it, with trade-offs in access, control and income tax that we weigh with your advisors.
Trusts that protect what children inherit
Irrevocable and dynasty trusts can hold assets for children and grandchildren on terms you set and, with appropriate design, offer protection against certain creditor claims. A properly structured irrevocable life insurance trust (ILIT) may keep insurance proceeds outside the taxable estate.
Meetings by Zoom, signings in San Francisco
Most planning meetings take place by Zoom. Signings are at our San Francisco office in the Financial District, a short trip up the Peninsula. Probate and trust court matters for San Mateo County residents are handled in San Mateo County Superior Court.
Zoom, or our San Francisco office
Most consultations are by Zoom, in English, Cantonese or Mandarin. Signings take place at our San Francisco office. Probate and trust court matters for Hillsborough & Burlingame residents are handled in San Mateo County Superior Court.
San Francisco
505 Montgomery Street, 11th Floor
San Francisco, CA 94111
888.380.2288 · 415.693.8882
By appointment only · Mon–Fri, 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Atherton, Woodside, Portola Valley, Menlo Park, San Carlos, Belmont, Redwood City, San Mateo, Foster City, Millbrae.
Start with a conversation.
Meetings are by appointment, weekdays 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM, by Zoom or at our offices. Call 888.380.2288 or 415.693.8882, or request a time online. Consultations in English, Cantonese or Mandarin.