August 2025 - Lonich Patton Ehrlich Policastri

Coping with Estate Disputes: Strategies for Resolving Family Conflicts Amicably

August 27, 2025/in Estate Planning /by Michael Lonich

When a loved one passes away, emotions run high, and when estates and inheritances are involved, unresolved tensions can quickly boil over. Estate disputes are sadly common, especially in cases where wills are unclear, outdated, or contested.

Families in California often find themselves navigating a maze of legal and emotional challenges, but with the right approach, it is possible to resolve these conflicts without damaging relationships permanently.

Below, we explore practical and compassionate strategies for managing estate-related disagreements and keeping family bonds intact.

Understanding the Roots of Estate Disputes

Most estate disputes stem from one of three key issues:

Ambiguity in the will or trust
Perceived unfairness or favoritism
Lack of communication or trust among family members

In California, probate laws are relatively clear, but emotions can still cloud judgment. Even with a valid will or trust, siblings or other beneficiaries might question the intentions behind certain distributions or suspect undue influence. Recognizing these emotional undercurrents is the first step toward resolution.

Strategies for Resolving Estate Disputes Amicably

Prioritize Open and Honest Communication

One of the most effective ways to prevent or resolve conflict is through direct, respectful conversation. Whenever possible, gather family members for a calm, neutral discussion. Acknowledge that everyone is grieving and that emotions may impact how they perceive the situation.

If a group conversation isn’t feasible, consider written communication or one-on-one meetings to express concerns and clarify intentions.

Involve a Neutral Third Party in Family Conflicts

If conversations become heated or unproductive, mediation can be incredibly helpful. In California, estate mediation is a voluntary, confidential process where a trained neutral party helps guide families toward a mutually acceptable resolution.

Unlike litigation, it’s less adversarial and often faster and less expensive. Mediation also preserves privacy, a major advantage when compared to court proceedings.

Understand Your Legal Rights and Options

In California, heirs and beneficiaries have the right to contest a will or trust under specific circumstances, such as:

Suspected undue influence
Lack of mental capacity at the time the document was signed
Fraud or forgery
A more recent will that supersedes an older one

Understanding these legal grounds can help families determine whether a claim is justified or not, and prevent unnecessary legal battles.

Plan Ahead to Prevent Estate Disputes

The best way to avoid estate conflicts is with proactive planning. Working with an experienced estate planning attorney ensures that your documents are legally sound, regularly updated, and clearly reflect your wishes. This foresight reduces ambiguity and minimizes the risk of family strife after your passing.

When to Seek Legal Guidance Regarding Estate Disputes

If your family is struggling with an estate dispute in California, don’t face it alone. A compassionate and skilled estate planning attorney can help mediate conflicts, clarify your legal rights, and guide you through probate or trust administration.

Need Help Navigating an Estate Dispute?

At Lonich Patton Ehrlich Policastri, we specialize in estate planning and dispute resolution throughout California. Our experienced attorneys offer thoughtful, solutions-focused support to help families protect their loved ones’ legacies, without tearing relationships apart.

Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation.

Disclaimer: This article does not constitute a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of your legal matter.

When Child Custody Mediation Fails

August 20, 2025/in Family Law /by Gina Policastri

Numerous studies have shown that children perform better academically and socially when both parents are committed to being involved in their lives. California courts prioritize the best interests of the child. They will typically award both parents joint legal and physical custody unless there is a compelling reason why the child would be better off with only one parent.

The court also requires the parents to participate in mediation before they make a ruling. Mediation, facilitated by a neutral third-party mediator, enables parents to develop a parenting plan that allows both to spend quality time with their child. The mediator’s role is to guide the discussion, ensure both parents’ voices are heard, and help them reach a mutually beneficial agreement. Instead of a contentious court battle, mediation focuses on creating a parenting plan through open communication and cooperation. In turn, this can lay the groundwork for a better co-parenting relationship.

Why Mediation Might Fail

Mediation isn’t always successful. Even though parents start with the best intentions, they might struggle to come to an agreement. Some reasons for failure include:

The divorce is high-conflict, making productive discussions impossible
One or both parents are unwilling to compromise
They are too far apart on key issues such as decision-making authority and schedules
There was domestic abuse
Some legal issues are still unresolved

Even if mediation fails, there are other options for resolving child custody issues.

What to Expect if Mediation Fails

When mediation fails, a family court judge becomes responsible for issuing a child custody order. They will hear both sides, consider the evidence, and make their decision based on factors such as:

The location of each parent
The parent’s ability to provide a safe and stable environment
The relationship between the child and each parent
The child’s preference, depending on their age

Before the court hearing, gather documentation such as medical records, school records, and any other evidence that demonstrates your ability to be a capable parent who prioritizes your child’s well-being. During the court hearing, stay focused on the child and avoid airing any grievances about the other parent.

The judge may require additional information before deciding what is in the best interest of the child and may order a custody evaluation. An evaluator, such as a child psychologist or social worker, will conduct a thorough assessment, looking at factors such as:

Each parent’s relationship with the child
How the child interacts with their parents
The ability of the parents to provide a stable environment
Each parent’s willingness to encourage a relationship between the child and the other parent

Upon concluding their assessment, they will provide recommendations to the judge.

Throughout the process, remember that your child is still adjusting to the new family dynamics. You play a crucial role in this adjustment. Prioritize their emotional health by maintaining a stable home environment and providing a consistent routine.

Seek Legal Representation

There is too much at stake to navigate a child custody case on your own. You need the support and guidance of one of our experienced family lawyers at Lonich Patton Ehrlich Policastri. Our attorneys have over 100 years of combined litigation experience. We will help present your case and advocate for a custody plan that is in the best interest of your child.

We understand that this situation is overwhelming, so we will be with you throughout the process, ensuring you know your rights and options.

Call (408) 553-0801 to schedule your free consultation. We look forward to working with you.

Disclaimer: This article does not constitute a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of your legal matter.

How to Plan for a Pet Trust: Providing for Your Furry Friends’ Future

August 13, 2025/in Estate Planning /by Michael Lonich

Do you have a plan for who will care for your pets after your death or if you become incapacitated and unable to care for them yourself? Many people assume that friends or family will volunteer to adopt their pets, but the reality is that many pets go unclaimed instead. Even if you’ve included instructions in your will to appoint a caregiver, it can sometimes be difficult to enforce your wishes legally.

So what’s the best way to provide a secure future for your beloved pets? Consider a pet trust.

What is a Pet Trust?

A pet trust is a legally-enforceable agreement that allows you to designate a caregiver, set aside funds, and set out specific instructions for the care you want your pet to receive until their death.

What to Include in a Pet Trust

We’ve put together the following tips to help you think about what to include in your pet trust.

Caregiver

The named caregiver will be the person who takes physical custody of your pet and becomes responsible for their daily care. Choose someone you trust but also someone who is both willing and capable of caring for your pet long-term. Have an honest conversation with them before assigning them as the caregiver and have a backup in mind in case your first choice cannot fulfill this role.

Trustee

Designate a separate person (or organization) to manage the money in the trust and make sure it is used appropriately for the care of your pet. Friends or family members can be good choices but you can also consider an attorney or even a non-profit organization that specializes in pet stewardship.

Funds

Set aside enough money to cover care costs for as long as your pet lives. Some people fund their trust through savings, a life insurance policy, or by selling property or other assets. It can be helpful to work with an estate planning attorney to make sure your method of funding the pet trust doesn’t conflict with your will and the rest of your estate plan.

When estimating the costs of care, think about food, veterinary visits and potential emergency care, grooming needs, medication, boarding or pet sitting, and burial or cremation. Try to factor in inflation and also think about how long you think your pet might live. Some species or breeds have specific health problems or shorter or longer lifespans. Do some research online or talk to your veterinarian to help you with estimates.

Detailed Care Instructions

You know your pet best. Include as much detail as you can to help your chosen caregiver know exactly what your pet needs. Instructions should include things like:

Diet and feeding schedule
Any known health conditions
Medications
Behavior quirks and history
Routines
Preferred veterinarians
Exercise needs
Pet sitters or boarding facilities

Consult with an Estate Planning Professional

Establishing a pet trust can give you much-needed peace of mind that your beloved companion will be well-taken care of when you are no longer able to do so. The Estate Planning Group at Lonich Patton Ehrlich Policastri (LPEP Law) can guide you as you make the necessary decisions to set up your pet trust and incorporate it into your estate plan. Schedule your free, no-obligation consultation to get started today.

Disclaimer: this article does not constitute a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of your legal matter.

Navigating the Complexities of Blended Families: A Comprehensive Guide to Step-Parent Adoption

August 6, 2025/in Family Law /by Mitchell Ehrlich

Blended families are becoming increasingly common in the United States. When minor children are involved, some step-parents choose to take the significant and emotionally rewarding path toward legally adopting their spouse’s child. This process grants the step-parent all the legal rights and responsibilities of a biological parent, which can be important for custody, inheritance, healthcare and education decisions, and more. More than that, though, many step-parents feel that this legally-binding process reflects their dedication to a permanent parental relationship, which can strengthen emotional bonds and give the child a sense of security and identity.

While step-parent adoption is rewarding, it can also present some challenges. This comprehensive guide explores the legal considerations and steps involved as well as some practical tips that can make the process smoother.

Legal Requirements and Eligibility

Although step-parent adoption laws vary by jurisdiction, some common requirements include:

Marriage: Most states require the step-parent to be legally married to the child’s biological or legal parent.
Consent: Usually, states require that the child’s non-custodial biological parent consents to the adoption unless their rights are terminated due to neglect, abandonment, or being unfit or deceased.
Background check: A criminal background check or home study might be required.
Child’s consent: For older children (usually over the age of 12), a court may also require their consent.

The Step-Parent Adoption Process

Because the adoption process can be complicated and laws vary by state, your first step should be to consult a family lawyer. They can help clarify the local legal procedures, file necessary paperwork, give you sound legal advice, and represent you in court.

Your family lawyer will file the adoption petition in your local family court. The petition will likely include consent forms, your marriage certificate, the child’s birth certificate, and proof that you have contacted (or attempted to contact) the non-custodial parent.

If you are unable to obtain consent from the non-custodial biological parent, the court must determine whether there are grounds to terminate their parental rights.

Once your petition has been filed, the court might ask for a home study to assess the living environment. This requirement is often either waived in the case of step-parent adoption or less rigorous than in other adoption petitions.

Finally, you and your spouse will attend a court hearing where the judge will review your case, ask questions, and either grant or deny the adoption. If granted, the child will receive a new birth certificate with the adoptive step-parent’s name, and the adoption becomes permanent and irreversible.

Practical Tips

Include the child in the process, and be patient as they adjust to this new reality. Try to respect the existing parental relationship with the non-custodial parent, even if it is less than ideal. Consider family counseling and encourage open communication. Celebrate the adoption day as a family milestone by having a special ceremony or making a keepsake. Don’t be afraid to reach out and seek support.

Interested in Pursuing Step-Parent Adoption?

The Family Law Group at Lonich Patton Ehrlich Policastri (LPEP Law) has years of experience in helping blended families navigate the challenges of adoption. Contact us to schedule a free 30-minute consultation to discuss your case today.