Estate Planning: Beyond the Binder

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Estate Planning: Beyond the Binder, host LeAnn Lyon and guest Brian Chew, the managing attorney of OC Wills and Trusts, delve into the critical topic of beneficiary designations and their impact on estate planning. Brian explains how beneficiary designations can override wills and trusts, leading to unintended consequences if not properly managed. He shares real-world examples, including a case w...

Episode Summary: In this episode of *Estate Planning: Beyond the Binder* Brian Chew unveils the intricacies and expenses associated with probate in California. From the expensive legal fees to the lengthy court procedures, Brian breaks down how probate can significantly drain assets and time for families dealing with estate matters.

Key Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to Estate Planning Beyond the Binder 00:45 – What t...

Episode Summary: In this episode of *Estate Planning: Beyond the Binder* Brian Chew discusses the critical importance of properly funding your trust. Many individuals mistakenly believe that signing trust documents is the final step, but the key lies in ensuring assets are transferred correctly to avoid probate. Brian highlights common pitfalls and offers valuable insights for maintaining an effective estate plan.

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Episode Summary:  In this episode of *Estate Planning: Beyond the Binder* Brian Chew, a renowned estate planning attorney, delves into the complexities faced by the sandwich generation—individuals caring for aging parents and children simultaneously. He highlights the importance of robust estate planning to safeguard retirement savings, manage assets effectively, and avoid costly legal proceedings.

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Episode Summary: Do-it-yourself estate planning can lead to costly mistakes, as attorney Brian Chew explains in this episode. From overlooking crucial legal advice to failing to fund trusts properly, DIY approaches can turn into nightmares for Californians. Brian emphasizes the importance of understanding goals and concerns to create effective estate plans.

Key Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 01:30 – Risks of DIY estat...

Episode Summary: In this episode of *Estate Planning: Beyond the Binder*, Brian Chew, a seasoned estate planning attorney, delves into the critical aspects of estate planning for unmarried partners in California. He highlights the significant legal and financial implications that arise when individuals fail to establish proper estate plans for their partners, offering valuable insights for safeguarding assets and decision-making ri...

Episode Summary:

In this episode, Brian Chew, a leading estate planning attorney, discusses the crucial estate planning legal checklist every parent needs before their child heads to college. From understanding the impact of turning 18 to the necessity of documents like power of attorney and health care directives, Brian offers practical insights to ensure parents are prepared for any unforeseen emergencies.

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Episode Summary: In this episode, Brian Chew, the managing partner at OC Wills and Trust Attorneys, delves into the crucial role of life insurance within an estate plan. He emphasizes the significance of life insurance in replacing lost income, supporting surviving family members, and providing liquidity for various expenses. Brian also highlights the common mistakes people make when not integrating life insurance with their estate...

Episode Summary:

In this episode, Brian Chew, managing partner at OC Wills and Trust, delves into the complexities of estate planning with a focus on retirement accounts like IRAs and 401Ks. He highlights the importance of strategic planning to avoid tax pitfalls and ensure a seamless transfer of assets to beneficiaries.

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- 00:00 – Introduction

- 01:30 – Tax Implications of Traditional IRAs and 401Ks

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Episode Summary:  

In this crucial episode, Brian Chew explains why owning a vacation home, rental property, or inherited land in another state can turn into a nightmare of ancillary probates, extra attorneys, and tens of thousands in unexpected fees. Brian reveals the simple fix that lets one California trust own property nationwide, the LLC pitfalls most owners miss, and why family vacation homes often end up being sold...

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In this eye-opening episode, Brian Chew reveals why digital assets are the most overlooked part of modern estate planning. From cryptocurrency worth six figures to priceless family photos in the cloud, Brian explains the critical difference between legal authority and practical access, why many platforms have no “death department,” and actionable steps every family can take today to prevent ...

Episode Summary:

In this vital episode, Brian Chew shifts the focus from death to incapacity, explaining why every adult over 18 needs planning in place today. The discussion covers legal incapacity triggers, HIPAA barriers, the critical difference between powers of attorney and court-ordered conservatorships, healthcare directives vs. living wills, why DNRs rarely work in emergencies, and how proper documents spare families chaos ...

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In this critical episode, Brian Chew explains why every business owner needs a succession plan—whether retirement is decades away or tomorrow is uncertain. The discussion separates estate planning (who takes control) from succession planning (what they do next), explores the three exit options (close, sell, or continue), and stresses documenting institutional knowledge, buy-sell agreements, and the surprising...

Divorce doesn’t just change your personal life — it changes your estate plan. In this episode of Estate Planning: Beyond the Binder, Brian Chew, Managing Partner at OC Wills and Trusts, explains how divorce impacts wills, trusts, beneficiary designations, and guardianship choices. He breaks down why updating your documents during or immediately after divorce is critical to avoid leaving an ex-spouse in c...

In this episode of Estate Planning: Beyond the Binder, Brian Chew, Managing Partner of OC Wills and Trusts, discusses how families can plan for children or loved ones with special needs. He explains how a properly designed special needs trust allows families to provide financial support without disqualifying their loved one from essential government benefits such as SSI and Medi-Cal. Brian also covers the difference...

In this episode of Estate Planning: Beyond the Binder, Brian Chew, Managing Partner at OC Wills and Trusts, explains what it truly means to die “intestate” in California. Brian breaks down how state law distributes assets, why probate can be so costly and time-consuming, and the common misconceptions about what happens when you don’t leave behind a plan. He also shares the critical differences betw...

In this episode of Estate Planning: Beyond the Binder, Brian Chew, managing partner of OC Wills and Trusts, explores the unique estate planning challenges that come with blended families and second marriages. From stepchildren and separate property to prenuptial agreements and trust structures, Brian shares strategies to help protect both your spouse and your children while minimizing conflict.

Episode Summary In this episode of Estate Planning: Beyond the Binder, Brian Chew breaks down the complex world of Medi-Cal planning for California families. He explains how seniors can protect their homes and assets while still qualifying for long-term care benefits. Brian clears up common misconceptions, discusses the 30-month look-back period, and shares practical strategies for avoiding costly mistakes.

What You Will Learn in T...

Episode Summary Your estate plan is only as strong as the people you choose to carry it out. From trustees to guardians to powers of attorney, these roles require judgment, honesty, and responsibility. In this episode, Brian Chew explains how to select the right people, what qualities matter most, and the common mistakes families make when making these important decisions.

What You Will Learn in This Episode

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