Q: I can’t afford lawyer and need estate planin advice?
A: Go to a local legal aid clinic. [I litigate cases. Anything posted here must not be construed as legal advice, nor as grounds for forming an attorney-client relationship. You should seek an attorney for formal legal advice and representation.]
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A:
Here are some options for estate planning in California without hiring a lawyer:
1. Use free or low-cost online templates to make your own will, living trust, etc. Sites like RocketLawyer.com or Nolo.com have templates that follow California laws. They cost much less than hiring a lawyer to customize documents.
2. Use estate planning resources at your local public library. Many libraries have books with sample estate planning documents and information on California probate rules and procedures. Some even have clinics with lawyers who can review your documents for a small fee.
3. Attend a free estate planning seminar. Local adult schools, legal aid societies, law schools, and bar associations often host free seminars on basic California estate planning. They give general guidance on making a valid will, setting up trusts, etc. without individual legal advice.
4. Hire a paralegal service or legal document assistant to help prepare documents. These services cost less than attorneys and follow statutory guidelines on which services they can provide. They can help prepare documents, but cannot legally offer personalized legal advice.
5. Use California's Small Estate process if applicable. This allows estates under $166,250 to transfer certain assets without formal probate. It reduces legal oversight needed.
Be sure to educate yourself on California estate planning laws before creating any legal documents. If your situation is complex, saving to hire an estate attorney, even just for a consultation, can provide needed guidance.
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