We live in an extremely mobile society. Americans move on average once every seven years and many people choose to relocate to the San Diego area because of the beautiful weather and positive lifestyle. If you’ve moved to California from another state and haven’t had your estate plan reviewed, please contact your estate planning attorney to determine if your documents need to be updated.
The requirements for legal documents vary from state to state. And, while your estate planning documents may still be valid, it may be, in reality, difficult to have them honored. For instance, your new bank or medical doctor is likely to be hesitant to honor a Power of Attorney from the state of your previous residence. And, if there is a death, it will be challenging to administer the Trust or Will under the law of another state. In fact, you will likely need to hire lawyers in both states.
Gay marriage contracts are valid in some states but not in others. And, Powers of Attorney are governed by state law. At the very minimum, be sure to execute these documents as applicable to your individual situation. In general estate plans should be looked at from time to time or when you have a significant change in your life such as a death, divorce, new child, move, or simply a change in your goals or assets. Your estate planning attorney is your friend.
Be sure that your wishes and goals are effectuated. Please feel free to contact our office to discuss our out of state estate planning documents. 858-729-5988.