Estate Planning Attorneys
A comprehensive estate plan that keeps your family out of probate court, protects your assets, names guardians for your children, and ensures your wishes are legally honored. Wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives, all customized to your life.
After our daughter was born in 1985, we modified our wills to list appropriate guardians for her and updated our trust. Again, Larry made this process easy to accomplish He made sure that should anything happen to us, our daughter and her guardians would have access to her inheritance when she needed it which gave us peace of mind.
In 1999, the Wife’s mother went into hospice without a will or trust. Larry was able to meet with her mom and make sure power of attorney and medical power of attorney was properly established. His kindness during this difficult time meant a lot to our family.
In 2005 with our daughter turning 21, we three met with Larry in his office to go over the wills and trust with her, so she would understand that everything was taken care of and that she had nothing to worry about. Again, this brought us all great peace of mind. Larry reminds us on a regular basis to review and update our wills and trust as needed.
In 2012, as we were thinking about retiring, Larry was able to make a terrific suggestion for a financial advisor who would help us set up our retirement program. Since this was something neither of us had any skill with, his recommendation, knowing our situation, was perfect.
In 2024, when a friend of ours was hospitalized, her daughter needed to be named as power of attorney and medical power of attorney, so we suggested Larry, who visited once she was discharged and was able to establish the appropriate documentation. This brought great peace of mind to our friend and her daughter.
Now, Davis & Davis LLP has been established with Larry’s son, Eric. Our daughter is looking forward to meeting with them so she may create her own will and trust. We know that Eric is going to be as thorough and caring as his father. After 40+ years with this law firm, we cannot be more delighted with their experience and care for their clients.
If you’re looking for reliable guidance on estate planning, asset protection, or preparing important legal documents, I highly recommend them. They truly care about their clients and take the time to explain your options so you feel confident about your decisions.
Highly recommend for anyone needing help with wills, trusts, powers of attorney, or comprehensive estate planning services.
WHY IT MATTERS
What Happens to Your Family Without an Estate Plan?
Without a legally sound estate plan, California law decides who inherits your assets, who cares for your children, and who makes medical decisions on your behalf. The consequences are preventable, but only if you plan ahead.
Costly Probate Proceedings
Without a trust, your estate may go through California's probate process, which can take 12 to 18 months and cost thousands in court fees and attorney costs that reduce what your family receives.
No Say in Guardianship
If you have minor children and no Will or trust in place, a court decides who raises them. Your wishes carry no legal weight unless they are documented in a valid estate plan.
Family Conflict and Uncertainty
When there is no clear plan, disagreements between family members over assets, responsibilities, and intentions become common. An estate plan removes ambiguity and protects relationships.
START PLANNING TODAY
Take the First Step Toward Protecting Your Family
A comprehensive estate plan gives your family clarity, protection, and peace of mind. Find out what your plan should include in a free, no-obligation consultation with our estate planning attorneys.
COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING
What Your Estate Plan May Include
Every estate plan we create is built around your specific circumstances. Depending on your goals, your plan may include any combination of the following documents and strategies.
Revocable Living Trust
The cornerstone of most California estate plans. Keeps your assets out of probate and provides seamless management if you become incapacitated.
Last Will and Testament
Names guardians for minor children, designates an executor, and addresses any assets not held in your trust.
Financial Power of Attorney
Designates a trusted person to manage your finances if you are unable to do so, without the need for court intervention.
Advance Healthcare Directive
Documents your medical treatment preferences and appoints a healthcare agent to make decisions on your behalf.
HIPAA Authorization
Allows your designated representatives to access your medical records and communicate with your healthcare providers.
Asset Protection Strategies
Structures your plan to shield assets from creditors, lawsuits, and other potential threats to your family's wealth.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Estate Planning FAQs
What is the difference between a Will and a trust?
A Will takes effect after death and must go through probate. A trust takes effect immediately, avoids probate, and provides management of your assets if you become incapacitated. Most California estate plans benefit from including both.
How much does estate planning cost in California?
The cost depends on the complexity of your estate and your specific needs. We provide transparent pricing during your initial consultation so you know exactly what to expect before you commit.
Do I need an estate plan if I don't have a lot of assets?
Yes. Estate planning is not just about assets. It addresses who makes medical decisions for you, who cares for your children, and how to avoid unnecessary court involvement for your family.
How often should I update my estate plan?
Review your plan every three to five years, or whenever a major life event occurs, such as a marriage, divorce, birth of a child, significant change in assets, or a move to a new state.
How often should I update my estate plan?
Review your plan every three to five years, or whenever a major life event occurs, such as a marriage, divorce, birth of a child, significant change in assets, or a move to a new state.
Can you help if a family member has just passed away?
Yes. We guide families through probate and trust administration, helping executors and trustees understand their obligations and fulfill them correctly and efficiently.
What if I need an estate plan urgently due to a health crisis?
Davis & Davis LLP specializes in emergency estate planning. We can act quickly, including meeting in hospitals or homes, to ensure your wishes are legally documented when time is critical.
Serving Families Across the San Fernando Valley and Los Angeles
Davis & Davis LLP is based in Porter Ranch, California, and provides estate planning services to families and individuals throughout the San Fernando Valley, greater Los Angeles, and the state of California.