Estate Planning: Beyond the Binder

Episode Summary In this episode of Estate Planning: Beyond the Binder, Brian Chew, Managing Partner at OC Wills and Trusts, explains what it truly means to die “intestate” in California. Brian breaks down how state law distributes assets, why probate can be so costly and time-consuming, and the common misconceptions about what happens when you don’t leave behind a plan. He also shares the critical...

Episode Summary In this episode of Estate Planning: Beyond the Binder, Brian Chew, managing partner of OC Wills and Trusts, explores the unique estate planning challenges that come with blended families and second marriages. From stepchildren and separate property to prenuptial agreements and trust structures, Brian shares strategies to help protect both your spouse and your children while minimiz...

Episode Summary In this episode of Estate Planning: Beyond the Binder, Brian Chew breaks down the complex world of Medi-Cal planning for California families. He explains how seniors can protect their homes and assets while still qualifying for long-term care benefits. Brian clears up common misconceptions, discusses the 30-month look-back period, and shares practical strategies for avoiding costly...

Episode Summary Your estate plan is only as strong as the people you choose to carry it out. From trustees to guardians to powers of attorney, these roles require judgment, honesty, and responsibility. In this episode, Brian Chew explains how to select the right people, what qualities matter most, and the common mistakes families make when making these important decisions. What You Will Learn in T...

Episode Summary In this episode of Estate Planning Beyond the Binder, estate planning attorney Brian Chew, Managing Partner at OC Wills and Trusts, addresses some of the most common myths that often mislead families about estate planning. With over 25 years of experience helping Orange County families protect their legacies, Brian explains why misconceptions about wills, trusts, and estate plans c...

Episode Summary: In this episode of Estate Planning Beyond the Binder, Brian Chew, Managing Partner at OC Wills & Trusts, tackles a common but risky estate planning shortcut—putting children on the title of a home. Brian explains why many parents consider this strategy to avoid probate, but also reveals the serious downsides, including tax consequences, creditor risks, and loss of control. He...

Episode Summary: In this episode of Estate Planning Beyond the Binder, Brian Chew, Managing Partner at OC Wills & Trusts, tackles a common but risky estate planning shortcut—putting children on the title of a home. Brian explains why many parents consider this strategy to avoid probate, but also reveals the serious downsides, including tax consequences, creditor risks, and loss of control. He...

Episode Summary: In this episode of Estate Planning Beyond the Binder, Brian Chew, Managing Partner at OC Wills & Trusts, discusses the life events that should trigger an estate plan review. Brian explains why changing relationships—not just changing assets—are the top reason for updating trusts, and how failing to review your plan can lead to costly mistakes. From growing children, divorce, a...

Episode Summary Attorney Brian Chew explores dynasty trusts, a key estate planning tool for protecting family wealth across generations in California. The episode details how dynasty trusts, embedded within revocable living trusts, offer lifetime asset protection for children against creditors, divorce, and poor financial decisions. It highlights their flexibility, allowing children to control tru...

Episode Summary:  In this episode, host Zofia Morales and estate planning expert Brian Chew discuss the crucial steps that follow after receiving your estate planning binder. Brian emphasizes that estate planning is a process, not just a product, and outlines key actions needed to ensure your plan remains effective, including trust funding and maintaining proper documentation.   Key Timestamps: 00...

Episode Summary: In this inaugural episode, host Zofia Morales and estate planning attorney Brian Chew discuss the fundamentals of estate planning beyond just having documents in a binder. They explore why comprehensive estate planning is crucial for protecting families, especially those with minor children, and how to ensure plans are actually effective when needed.   Key Timestamps: 00:01 - Show...