Estate Planning

Many people delay estate planning — intimidated by complexity, uncertain about cost, or simply not sure where to start. But hesitation has real consequences. Without a proper estate plan, your assets may be subject to probate, your wishes may go unheeded, and the people you love may be left navigating a court process at the worst possible time.

At Caplan Wilkinson, we make estate planning straightforward and accessible for individuals and families throughout San Jose and Santa Clara County.

What a Complete Estate Plan Includes

A full estate plan from Caplan Wilkinson typically includes:

• A revocable living trust — the cornerstone of probate avoidance in California, allowing your assets to transfer to your beneficiaries quickly and privately without court involvement

• A will — to direct the distribution of any assets not held in trust, and to name a guardian for minor children

• Durable power of attorney — naming a trusted person to manage your financial affairs if you become incapacitated

• Advance healthcare directive — documenting your medical wishes and naming a healthcare agent to make decisions on your behalf

• HIPAA authorization — allowing your healthcare agent and family to access your medical records

• Final disposition instructions — guidance for your loved ones on your wishes for burial or cremation

Why a Trust Matters in the Bay Area

In California’s expensive housing market, most middle-class families’ primary asset is their home. Without a trust, a home — and any other assets above the statutory threshold — must pass through probate, a court-supervised process that can take a year or more and cost thousands in fees. A properly funded revocable living trust keeps your estate out of probate entirely, saving your heirs time, money, and stress.

A trust also plays a protective role during your lifetime. If you become incapacitated, your successor trustee can manage your assets seamlessly — without a court-appointed conservatorship.

Planning with an Elder Law Perspective

We bring an elder law background to every estate plan we prepare. A well-drafted power of attorney, healthcare directive, and trust — with carefully chosen fiduciaries — significantly reduces the risk of financial exploitation as you age. We also consider Medi-Cal planning and long-term care implications where relevant, helping clients plan not just for death, but for incapacity.

Who We Serve

We work primarily with individuals and couples in San Jose, Willow Glen, Campbell, Los Gatos, Saratoga, Santa Clara, Sunnyvale, Cupertino, and throughout Santa Clara County. We offer consultations by phone or video, and can accommodate in-person meetings by appointment at our Willow Glen office.

See our Pricing page for flat-fee rates, or contact us to schedule a free consultation.