In a world that’s increasingly paperless, you’re likely becoming accustomed to conducting a variety of transactions digitally. But when it comes to your last will and testament, only an original, signed document will do. A photocopy isn’t good enough Many people mistakenly believe that a photocopy of a signed will…

If you own part of a business, the subject of a buy-sell agreement has probably come up with your co-owners, and if it hasn’t, then it should. The purpose of a buy-sell agreement is to provide for an orderly transition of ownership interests when certain specified events occur, e.g., an…

Your estate plan shouldn’t be a static document. It needs to change as your life changes. Year end is the perfect time to check whether any life events have taken place in the past 12 months or so that affect your estate plan. And the plan should be reviewed periodically…

A crucial part of protecting a company’s “crown jewels” or trade secrets is developing and implementing a trade secret protection plan.  A trade secret protection plan should encompass written policies that are made available to all employees and consultants and are discussed with all parties who may have access to…

When married couples neglect to prepare an estate plan, state intestacy laws step in to help provide financial security for the surviving spouse. It may not be the plan they would have designed, but at least it offers some measure of financial security. Unmarried couples, however, have no such backup…

How American Companies can adhere to the European Union’s New Consumer Privacy Regulations on the Worldwide Web In May 2018, the European Union (EU) sent a clear message to the world that it will support and protect the privacy of its citizens on the world wide web with new General…

It may be difficult to consider, but funeral arrangements are a critical component of your estate plan. Failure to clearly communicate your wishes regarding the disposition of your remains can lead to tension, disputes and even litigation among your family members during what is already a difficult time. Address these…

Virginia was recently interviewed on KNCO radio. You can hear her discuss business law for start-ups with Seth Leishman. Seth is not just a radio show host but a CPA, CFP®, Senior Financial Advisor, partner and part owner of Ostrofe Financial Consultants, in Grass Valley.

If you have a child or other family member with a disabling condition that requires long-term care or prevents (or will prevent) him or her from being able to support him- or herself, consider establishing a special needs trust (SNT). Also known as a supplemental needs trust, an SNT allows…

Even though you can’t physically touch digital assets, they’re just as important to include in your estate plan as your material assets. Digital assets may include online bank and brokerage accounts, digital photo galleries, and even email and social media accounts. If you die without addressing these assets in your…