Moravec Varga & Mooney

Understanding dynasty trusts in California starts with one core idea: they are long‑term, tax‑efficient, asset‑protection trusts designed to hold and manage family wealth across multiple generations, but California law limits how long they can last (often around 90 years, not forever), and they are typically irrevocable once created. Because of these features, they can be powerful for California families with substantial assets, but they require careful drafting to comply wi

Short Answer: California does not actually allow truly perpetual private trusts; instead, it permits carefully drafted long‑term trusts that can span many decades and multiple generations while still complying with its rules on how long a trust may last. For families, the real question is how to use these long‑duration structures to protect assets, reduce transfer taxes, and preserve a coherent family legacy without creating something so rigid that it becomes a burden. Rethin

Introduction: A discretionary trust is a crucial estate planning tool that offers flexibility in managing assets and distributing income among beneficiaries. Unlike other types of trusts, a discretionary trust allows the trustee to have authority over when and how to distribute income and property to beneficiaries. The settlor or creator of the trust can outline terms, but the trustee holds the discretion to manage the assets based on the needs and circumstances of the benefi

Short Answer: An illegal trust conveyance in California occurs when an individual improperly transfers assets to a trust to avoid creditors or legal obligations. Such actions, including fraudulent conveyance, can lead to serious civil and criminal penalties, including imprisonment. Understanding the laws around trust conveyance and ensuring transparent estate planning is essential for avoiding costly legal consequences. Introduction In California, the complexities surrounding

Introduction An incentive trust is a specialized estate planning tool that allows a grantor to set specific conditions or milestones for beneficiaries to meet before they can access inheritance or other assets. Unlike a traditional trust, which typically distributes assets unconditionally, an incentive trust can motivate heirs to achieve personal maturity, succeed in their education, or meet other established goals before receiving distributions. In California, where tax impl

When dealing with real estate—whether buying, inheriting, or transferring—it’s essential to understand what legal documents actually prove ownership . One of the most common points of confusion is the deed of trust . Many people assume it shows who owns the property, but that's not the case. So, what exactly is a deed of trust—and does it prove ownership? Let's clear up the confusion. 🧾 What Is a Deed of Trust? In California and many other states, a deed of trust  is used in

When setting up a living trust  in California, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing a trustee —the person (or...

A living trust  is one of the most powerful tools in California estate planning. It allows you to maintain control over your assets...

Q1: What is a Special Needs Trust ? A special needs trust (SNT) is a legal arrangement that allows assets to be held for a disabled...