Estate Planning Research

Considering estate planning? Don't know much about it and would like to learn more? You made a good decision by coming here to Lyster.com. First, peruse the pages on "Estate Planning 101."  We have listed below a few other good places to continue the process.  The best bet?  Contact us!   We are eager to help!

If you are looking for the new estate tax rates and an example of how those new rates work, look no farther.  These are available right here (follow the hyperlinks).

Estate Planning Materials for the General Public from the Trusts and Estates Section of the State Bar of California:

EthicalWill.com.  Ethical wills are a way to share your values, blessings, life's lessons, hopes and dreams for the future, love, and forgiveness with your family, friends, and community.  Ethical wills are not new. The Hebrew Bible first described ethical wills 3000 years ago (Genesis Ch. 49). References to this tradition are also found in the Christian Bible (John Ch. 15-18) and in other cultures. Initially, ethical wills were transmitted orally. Over time, they evolved into written documents. 'Ethical wills' are not considered legal documents as compared to 'living wills' and your 'last will and testament' which are.

EstateCounselors.com.  EstateCounselors.com is an easy to use estate planning resource developed by the law firm of Willms Anderson, S.C. The purpose of the site is to provide a comprehensive and useful source of estate planning information online.  It is excellent.

H.E.L.P.  Estate Planning: Where Will My Assets Go When I'm Gone?

Nolo.com - Self help legal site.  Excellent information on basic estate planning concepts.

Leimberg on Total Return Unitrusts.  A new use for an old concept - the unitrust is adapted for use by non-charitable beneficiaries.

Probate Explained.  The Suburban Group's explanation of the probate process. (You've probably heard the "cons" of probate; here is a slightly more "pro" slant.)

Handbook for Conservators  The California Judicial Council makes available online, free of charge, its Handbook for Conservators.  Also available there are Links for Seniors and a self-help center for seniors.  A Checklist for Conservators of the Estate is also available.