- July 23, 2025
Disinheritance Case Settled: Children of Celebrated Movie Director Cut from Estate via Alleged Undue Influence
The since-settled estate litigation involving Oscar-nominated director Norman Jewison, whose estate was valued at more than $30 million, demonstrates the importance…Read Article - July 18, 2025
“Payment for My Silence”: Journalist Writes About the Pain of Disinheritance
How a memoir can put a family at odds. In a deeply personal and public account, journalist Tracie McMillan revealed…Read Article - July 16, 2025
When Family Trusts Fracture: Lessons from Disinheritance of Stepchildren
In a case that underscores the emotional and legal complexities of blended families and estate planning, the Idaho Supreme Court…Read Article - June 27, 2025
Mental Health Directives: A Vital Estate Planning Tool for California Attorneys
Editor’s Note: June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. In support of the educational goals behind that designation, we bring you another…Read Article - June 26, 2025
3 lessons from Jimmy Buffett estate dispute
Jimmy Buffett, loved by many for his iconic hits like “Margaritaville,” passed away on September 1, 2023, after battling Merkel…Read Article - June 24, 2025
Estate Planning for Neurodivergent Adults: Notes for California Attorneys
Editor’s Note: June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. In support of the educational goals behind that designation, we bring you another…Read Article - June 20, 2025
Can trustees in CA use trust funds to defend themselves?
Short answer: sometimes — but only when the defense clearly benefits the underlying trust- not the amendments that favor one…Read Article - June 13, 2025
Things Celebrities Wish They Knew About Estate Planning and Mental Health
Ways to Avoid the Litigated Estate Should Mental Capacity Decline News coverage of celebrities dealing with dementia – their own…Read Article - June 9, 2025
Tips for Families Whose Loved Ones Are Living with Dementia
June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, a time to recognize and focus on the mental health of elderly family…Read Article - June 3, 2025
Dementia Does Not Have to Derail Estate Plans
Why June is a good time to examine estate plans through the lens of mental health By Justin M. Kincheloe…Read Article - May 1, 2025
Stock Market Volatility and Trustees’ Duties Under the California Prudent Investor Act
Stock market volatility this year has frayed the nerves of anyone whose assets are in stocks or are otherwise influenced…Read Article - April 28, 2025
Responsible Trust Asset Management: Best Practices
Trustee Responsibilities All Blog Posts Trustees play a vital role in managing trust assets responsibly. They must act in the best…Read Article
