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LONICH PATTON EHRLICH POLICASTRI
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Phone: (408) 553-0801 | Fax: (408) 553-0807 | Email: contact@lpeplaw.com
LONICH PATTON EHRLICH POLICASTRI
Phone: (408) 553-0801
Fax: (408) 553-0807
Email: contact@lpeplaw.com
1871 The Alameda, Suite 400
San Jose, CA 95126
Located in San Jose, Lonich Patton Ehrlich Policastri handles matters for clients in northern California, specifically San Jose and Silicon Valley. Our services are available to anyone within the following counties: Santa Clara, San Mateo, Contra Costa, Santa Cruz, Monterey, San Benito, and San Francisco. For a full listing of areas where we practice, please click here.
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Digital Inheritance: Safeguarding Your Virtual Assets in Estate Planning
/in Estate Planning /by Michael LonichCreating an estate plan is vital to providing financial security to your loved ones, establishing generational wealth, and ensuring your final wishes are carried out. When we consider our estate plan, we tend to think in terms of physical assets, such as real estate and personal property.
However, as technology evolves, many of our assets only exist in a virtual world. Therefore, it only makes sense to establish an estate plan that covers our digital assets in addition to our physical ones.
What Are Virtual Assets?
Virtual assets are non-physical assets that can be traded or transferred digitally. They can be used for payment or investments. Examples of virtual assets include cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin or Ethereum, virtual goods in online games, digital arts, and other forms of digital property that are representations of real-world assets.
The value of virtual assets can fluctuate significantly and is often determined by factors such as demand, scarcity, and utility within their respective digital ecosystems.
Why Should You Include Virtual Assets in Your Estate Plan?
Virtual assets can hold both sentimental and monetary value. Including them in your estate plan ensures a comprehensive valuation of your wealth after you pass away. If they have significant value, such as cryptocurrency or frequent flyer miles (depending on the airline’s policy), they can help ensure your beneficiaries benefit from them.
You can also help preserve your legacy by having a plan to distribute NFTs, digital art, and other online content.
Some digital assets, such as social media, email, and online banking or payment accounts, are often tied to personal information and can hold financial benefits. If they are not included in your estate plan, there is the risk that they will be inaccessible after your death and lose any value.
Last, unmanaged digital assets can increase the risk of identity theft and fraud. Cybercriminals can exploit inactive user accounts, leading to potential financial and reputational damage.
Creating a Digital Estate Plan
Here are some steps you can take to ensure your digital assets are properly included in your estate plan:
Creating a digital estate plan to safeguard your virtual assets can be challenging. California’s Revised Uniform Fiduciary Access to Digital Assets (RUFADAA) allows for the management and disposition of your virtual estate. However, the laws are complex, so it’s best to discuss your estate plan with one of our attorneys at Lonich Patton Ehrlich Policastri. We have the expertise you need to create an estate plan that covers your physical and virtual assets.
Contact us for a free consultation by calling (408) 553-0801. We will work with you to create a complete estate plan that ensures the fulfillment of your wishes.
Disclaimer: this article does not constitute a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of your legal matter.
Coercive Control: The Conceptual Origins and Subsequent Legal Applications
/in Family Law /by Riley PenningtonDefining Coercive Control
A. Conceptual Definition
Coercive Control has not been assigned one clear and specific definition. Rather, Coercive Control is often referred to as a range of tactics used by an abuser to establish power and control over their victim. These tactics extend beyond physical violence and often involve emotional, psychological, financial, and social abuse.
The aim of Coercive Control is to undermine the victim’s autonomy, independence, and self-esteem, leaving them feeling trapped and powerless. By manipulating and dominating every aspect of the victim’s life, the abuser ensures their ability to maintain control.
B. Legal Definition
Senate Bill 1141(SB 1411) is California’s “Coercive Control” bill. The bill incorporates “Coercive Control” into the definition of abuse under the Domestic Violence Prevention Act (DVPA).
The bill went into effect on Jan. 1, 2021. If a court finds that a party to a relationship has committed domestic violence via Coercive Control, the victim may file a restraining order against the abuser in family court. Violating the restraining order may carry criminal penalties.
The relevant statutory provision is California Family Code section 6320, which mirrors SB 1411 and states:
“(a) The court may issue an ex parte order enjoining a party from molesting, attacking, striking, stalking, threatening, sexually assaulting, battering, credibly impersonating as described in Section 528.5 of the Penal Code, falsely personating as described in Section 529 of the Penal Code, harassing, telephoning, including, but not limited to, making annoying telephone calls as described in Section 653m of the Penal Code, destroying personal property, contacting, either directly or indirectly, by mail or otherwise, coming within a specified distance of, or disturbing the peace of the other party, and, in the discretion of the court, on a showing of good cause, of other named family or household members.
(b) On a showing of good cause, the court may include in a protective order a grant to the petitioner of the exclusive care, possession, or control of any animal owned, possessed, leased, kept, or held by either the petitioner or the respondent or a minor child residing in the residence or household of either the petitioner or the respondent. The court may order the respondent to stay away from the animal and forbid the respondent from taking, transferring, encumbering, concealing, molesting, attacking, striking, threatening, harming, or otherwise disposing of the animal.
(c) As used in this subdivision (a), “disturbing the peace of the other party” refers to conduct that, based on the totality of the circumstances, destroys the mental or emotional calm of the other party. This conduct may be committed directly or indirectly, including through the use of a third party, and by any method or through any means including, but not limited to, telephone, online accounts, text messages, internet-connected devices, or other electronic technologies. This conduct includes, but is not limited to, coercive control, which is a pattern of behavior that in purpose or effect unreasonably interferes with a person’s free will and personal liberty. Examples of coercive control include, but are not limited to, unreasonably engaging in any of the following:
(1) Isolating the other party from friends, relatives, or other sources of support.
(2) Depriving the other party of basic necessities.
(3) Controlling, regulating, or monitoring the other party’s movements, communications, daily behavior, finances, economic resources, or access to services.
(4) Compelling the other party by force, threat of force, or intimidation, including threats based on actual or suspected immigration status, to engage in conduct from which the other party has a right to abstain or to abstain from conduct in which the other party has a right to engage.
(d) This section does not limit any remedies available under this act or any other provision of law.”
In short, the legal definition is “a pattern of behavior that in purpose or effect unreasonably interferes with a person’s free will and personal liberty.” (Fam. Code section 6320). This definition is vague and expansive. This gives broad discretion to the court in determining what specific acts constitute coercive control.
Coercive Control’s Origin
Evan Stark founded the theory of Coercive Control in his book, Coercive Control: How Men Entrap Women in Personal Life. Evan Stark’s theory of Coercive Control is a framework that focuses on understanding domestic violence and abuse beyond physical violence alone. Stark’s theory highlights the non-physical tactics employed by abusers to establish power and control over their victims.
According to Stark, Coercive Control operates through a series of tactics that progressively limit the autonomy and agency of the victim. These tactics often involve emotional abuse, psychological manipulation, economic control, social isolation, and monitoring of the victim’s activities. By undermining the victim’s self-esteem, independence, and support networks, the abuser ensures their dominance and makes it difficult for the victim to escape the abusive relationship.
Stark argues that physical violence is just one aspect of Coercive Control and often serves as a last resort when other tactics fail to maintain control. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing the broader pattern of behaviors that make up Coercive Control to better understand the dynamics of abusive relationships. This perspective challenges the traditional understanding of domestic violence, which predominantly focuses on isolated incidents of physical violence.
Stark’s theory of Coercive Control has had a significant impact on shaping policies and legal frameworks related to domestic violence. It has influenced the development of laws that recognize the cumulative impact of non-physical abuse and provide protection for victims in situations where physical violence may be absent or sporadic. By shedding light on the complex dynamics of coercive control, Stark’s theory has contributed to a more comprehensive understanding of domestic violence and has helped support efforts to address and prevent such abuse.
Components of Coercive Control
A. Emotional and Psychological Abuse
Emotional and psychological abuse are a central component of Coercive Control. The abuser constantly chips away at the victim’s self-worth, confidence, and mental well-being. The specific methods used to achieve this include constant criticism, humiliation, gaslighting, and manipulation. The victim ultimately loses their true sense of reality, further entrenching the power dynamic.
B. Isolation
Isolation is typically a significant component of Coercive Control. The abuser intentionally isolates the victim from friends, family, and support networks, making it challenging for them to escape the abusive relationship. The abuser will often times monitor the victims communication, and place restrictions on social interactions, leading to a profound sense of loneliness and vulnerability.
C. Financial Control
Financial dependence can be exploited by the abuser as a means of control. Typical tactics include restricting the victim’s access to money, withholding financial resources, or controlling all financial decision-making. In a situation where the victim is reliant on the abuser for every basic need, their feelings of entrapment intensify, and it can feel financially impossible to leave the abusive relationship.
D. Threats of Violence and Intimidation
Coercive Control can involve explicit or implicit threats of harm. The abuser may employ intimidation tactics to instill fear in the victim in hopes to gain their compliance. The constant threat of violence looming over the victim can make them feel trapped and submissive, unable to assert their own desires or needs.
Impacts on Victims
Recent studies claim that the consequences of Coercive Control on victims are profound and long-lasting. Victims experience a both mental and physical health issues, including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and self-esteem problems. The constant manipulation and gaslighting can make victims doubt their own sanity and perpetuate a cycle of self-blame. The isolation and control also makes it challenging for victims to reach out for support or escape the abusive relationship.
Social Response
Recognizing the complex nature of Coercive Control has led to changes in legal and social responses to acts of non-physical domestic violence. Several jurisdictions have introduced legislation that criminalizes Coercive Control, emphasizing the importance of addressing each and every form of domestic abuse.
A recent surge in social awareness campaigns have aimed to educate the public, professionals, and even victims about the signs of Coercive Control and how to seek support. However, acknowledging the danger(s) of Coercive Control is a far easier task than implementing the concept into the penal code. The fight against Coercive Control has only just begun.
Legal Response
McCord v. Smith (2020) Cal.App.5th 358, held that coercive and controlling behavior is a form of domestic violence under California’s restraining order laws. (McCord v. Smith (2020) Cal.App.5th 358).
In McCord, the court stated that isolated events need to be evaluated within the broader context of the relationship to properly assess the “totality of the circumstances” for the purpose of issuing a restraining order. Id.
In September 2020, Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill to amend the Domestic Violence Prevention Act to ensure that Coercive Control constituted domestic violence. (SB 1141).
Fam. Code section 6300 provides the purpose of the Domestic Violence Prevention Act. (Fam. Code section 6300). An order may be issued under this part, with or without notice, to restrain any person for the purpose specified in section 6220, if an affidavit or testimony and any additional information provided to the court pursuant to section 6306 shows, to the satisfaction of the court, reasonable proof of a past act or acts of abuse (Fam. Code section 6300).
Prediction
The legal definition of “Coercive Control” is objectively vague. The California statute is constructed to encompass a variety of behaviors and provides minimal guidance to presiding judges. This, in turn, gives wide discretion to judges on how the code section may apply.
The glaring issue with section 6320 is that practically anything could fall under the term “Coercive Control.” The actions defined by Stark and other scholars are typically non-physical actions. Yet, there is no concrete definition or point in time where an action constitutes Coercive Control. These non-physical actions are highly subjective and can even include minor instances of getting into various forms of arguments.
Further, even the father of Coercive Control, Evan Stark, has no explanation as to the specific point in time where actions start to constitute Coercive Control. There is no upper or lower boundary, leaving experts to make a subjective case-by-case determinations on what is and what isn’t Coercive Control. The concept’s vague nature is extremely problematic when the Coercive Control “experts” are being paid for by a single party to a lawsuit. The experts can essentially fabricate a line of reasoning in order to appease the party that is paying them to appear. Thus, the aforementioned “experts” are manipulating the courts into establishing case precedent that is based on self-interest, rather than fact.
Appeals will be virtually impossible to win because the only way to obtain a reversal will be via a procedural defect in the standard of review or court proceedings. I believe that appellate courts will have a difficult task in determining that the trial court abused its discretion with such subjective and arbitrary guidelines. Thus, trial court judges who initially preside over Coercive Control cases are provided immeasurable power in the determination of how the concept will be applied for decades to come.
The variance in the application of section 6320 will be a large defect in California’s judicial system. However, California’s implementation can serve as a test case for other states and judiciaries. Other legal jurisdictions will benefit from the year(s) of hindsight if/when they choose to implement Coercive Control into their legal code.
The notion that arguments between spouses can be categorized as a form of domestic violence is so far removed from life’s realities that one must question if the concept can be taken seriously. The non-existent outer limits of Coercive Control’s application greatly diminish the validity of the concept and the legitimacy of its application.
Ultimately, I believe that Fam. Code section 6320 will be unevenly applied for several years until there is a clear and convincing body of case law for ultra-specific situations/behaviors. There will be little to no uniformity, and each case will present an opportunity to shape how the code section functions. Only time will tell if said case precedent is reasonable and prudent.
Conclusion
Coercive Control represents a foundational shift in our understanding of domestic violence. Many years will pass until we have a clear and concise understanding of how the code section will be applied to various behaviors. However, the implementation of Coercive Control in domestic violence proceedings will ultimately be a step in the right direction in the fight against domestic violence.
The courts will have to recognize the complex interplay of psychological, emotional, financial, and social elements to better comprehend the lasting impact on victims. Future case precedent will provide a more comprehensive definition of Coercive Control, hopefully deterring the behavior it currently seeks to prevent.
Rights of a Trust Beneficiary
/in Estate Planning /by Michael LonichIf you have recently discovered that you are a beneficiary of a trust, you likely have many questions.
That’s understandable. After all, there are several types of trusts, and some may have specific stipulations or requirements. Knowing how trusts work and your basic rights as a beneficiary can help you make informed decisions.
What is a Trust?
A trust is a legal arrangement that allows an individual (grantor) to transfer assets to a neutral third party (trustee) to hold and manage on behalf of someone else (beneficiary).
Trusts are used for several reasons. They might be established to control wealth, protect assets, provide for heirs, reduce estate taxes, or support charitable causes. Trusts can also be used in planning for incapacity or avoiding probate.
Types of Trusts
There are several different types of trust, but some of the most common types include:
Beneficiary Rights
In California, as a trust beneficiary, you generally have the following rights:
In addition, there may be more rights as outlined in the terms of your specific trust agreement.
Trust documents can be complex and challenging to understand. If you are a trust beneficiary, our attorneys at Lonich Patton Ehrlich Policastri can help explain the trust’s terms and how it impacts you. We can also help ensure your rights are protected and help resolve any issues or disputes. With our guidance and support, you can be assured your inheritance is in safe hands.
Consult us for a free consultation by calling (408) 553-0801.
Disclaimer: this article does not constitute a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of your legal matter.
How Do I Protect My Business In A Divorce?
/in Family Law /by Gretchen BogerDivorce is a complex landscape of emotions, decisions, and division of assets, and for entrepreneurs, the stakes can be even higher. Amid the personal upheaval, protecting a business you’ve poured your sweat, tears, and dreams into is essential. The intertwining of personal and business assets adds layers of complexity to the already challenging process of divorce. In this article, we’ll offer insights and strategies to help business owners safeguard their enterprises during divorce proceedings.
Understanding the stakes
In divorce, the treatment of business assets can significantly impact the outcome. The distinction between community property and separate property plays a pivotal role in determining what portion, if any, of the business might be subject to division.
Community property laws often consider businesses established during the marriage as joint assets, while pre-existing businesses might face evaluations for spousal claims. Navigating these legal distinctions is crucial in understanding the potential impact of divorce on your business’s ownership.
If you don’t have proper planning in place, divorce could possibly result in frozen business assets. For small or family-owned businesses, this can have a significant impact on your ability to run your business.
Protective measures for business owners
So, what can business owners do to protect their properties? Here are three protective measures you can take that may help to safeguard your business during divorce.
Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements
These legal agreements delineate the treatment of business assets in the event of divorce. They can specify the division or exclusion of business interests, offering a layer of protection for your business in the event of divorce.
Strategic business structuring
Careful structuring of the business entity and ownership arrangements can fortify its protection. Utilizing trusts, shareholder agreements, or creating a buy-sell agreement can safeguard the business’s integrity during divorce proceedings.
Comprehensive documentation
Diligent record-keeping and documentation practices establishing the business’s separate identity and value before and during the marriage can substantiate its status as separate property. This can potentially shield it from being considered as a marital asset during divorce proceedings.
Navigating divorce proceedings
In the midst of divorce proceedings, protecting a business requires a delicate balance between legal knowledge and strategic foresight. It’s a good idea to contact specialized legal counsel, well-versed in both business and divorce law to help you navigate this complex landscape.
Experienced attorneys can guide you through the processes of valuation, negotiation, and settlement, while advocating for equitable resolutions and safeguarding your business as much as possible.
Protect your business assets with LPEP Law
At Lonich Patton Ehrlich Policastri (LPEP Law), our family law attorneys are highly experienced in representing business owners who are considering divorce. We have previously represented many clients in high-asset divorce situations, and have over a decade of experience to call upon.
LPEP Law has worked with numerous clients over the years, including many small business owners dealing with divorce. Our family law experts work together with experienced business litigation attorneys to help protect your business and business assets during a divorce.
Contact LPEP today to set up a free consultation to discuss your specific needs.
Disclaimer: this article does not constitute a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of your legal matter.
Estate Planning for Artists: Protecting Your Intellectual Property and Legacy
/in Estate Planning /by Michael LonichEstate planning ensures that your wishes, with regard to all your assets, are carried out after your death or if you become incapacitated. When most people think about estate planning, their minds immediately go to their tangible assets – house, car, jewelry, business, savings account, etc. For artists and other creators and innovators, though, estate planning should also extend to intangible assets like intellectual property and protecting the legacy of your artwork.
Your intellectual property and artwork are unique assets that deserve special consideration. The following are some things to consider and some steps you can take to help make the process easier for your beneficiaries, minimize future legal issues, and preserve your legacy as you see fit.
Choose A Reliable Executor
One of the most important decisions you need to make is who will be responsible for administering your estate on your behalf. When your estate includes artwork, it can be helpful to choose someone with expertise in this area. Certain intellectual property, especially patented ideas or products, require some maintenance like paying fees or re-filing with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office after expiration. Your spouse, children, or other beneficiaries might not be equipped to keep up with the necessary paperwork and maintenance.
Prepare Your Portfolio
To properly account for all of your creative assets, create a detailed inventory of your work. Be sure to include digital art, music, written works, photography, ceramics, paintings, etc. Make a note about where all of your art is located, including if it is publicly displayed, and how to access it and all related documentation (i.e., contact information of curators, passwords, keys, codes, files, etc.).
If you have not already done so, have a professional appraise the value of your artwork. Once you know the monetary value, insure your artistic assets as well. Don’t forget to make a special note about any artwork that generates royalties for your estate.
Make sure that your chosen executor, as well as your spouse, your attorney, or anyone else you choose, has access to the catalog of your work, the appraisal, relevant documentation, and information about how to access your assets.
Consider Your Legacy
Some questions to think about as you consider your legacy include:
While it’s never easy to think about the end of our lives, having a plan in place can give you much-needed peace of mind that your legacy and your family will be protected in your absence.
Consult With An Estate Planning Expert
The attorneys at Lonich Patton Ehrlich Policastri (LPEP Law) have a wealth of experience in estate planning, estate and trust administration, litigation, and probate. They can guide you through this complicated process and go over all your options to determine what’s best for your unique situation, including minimizing the taxes on your estate and maximizing charitable benefits, especially if you choose to donate your art. Get started today. Schedule your free, 30-minute consultation with the experts at LPEP Law by calling (408) 553-0801.
Disclaimer: this article does not constitute a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of your legal matter.