If you are in need of assistance related to wills, trusts, or estate matters, contact Gizzi & Reep, LLP, in Benicia, California. Our Bay Area lawyers will put together a customized plan to properly direct your financial resources in accordance with your wishes.

Estate Planning is Vital

Estate planning necessitates a proactive approach and sensitivity to the needs of not only the person who requires an estate plan, but also that individual's family members. Proper estate planning requires drafting a will to govern bequests of property to named beneficiaries and to specific guardians for minor children in case of parental death, and establishing trusts to ensure that finances are protected in accordance with individual requirements. Putting everything in writing makes all requests clear. The ultimate goal in estate planning is to keep as many of the resources as possible within the family or in the possession of the individuals selected to receive them, and not to tie up excessive money with legal matters, including complex probate proceedings.

Those who fail to prepare a proper estate plan will have their estates divided up and distributed by the court following strict statutory requirements. This essentially takes control away from the family and may become a complicated and expensive process. We can help you and your heirs avoid the trauma of estate disputes and we are able to assist with issues related to estate administration or probate challenges.

Family Businesses

If an individual's estate includes a family-run business, plans need to be made for the future. At Gizzi & Reep, LLP , we can prepare a detailed family business succession plan to ensure that the wishes of the business owner and family are met.

For more information or to schedule a free initial consultation on your estate-planning or probate matter at our Historic Arsenal District office, please contact us.