Securing Your Legacy: A Comprehensive Guide to Beneficiary Designations in California Estate Planning (2025 Update)

Learn how California’s 2025 laws on beneficiary designations, RTODDs, and spousal consent affect your estate plan. Discover how to protect your legacy and avoid probate with insights from Opelon LLP.
Owen Rassman Named Superlawyer in 2026- A Third Consecutive Year of Superb Excellence

Owen Rassman Named Superlawyer for the third year—recognized for exceptional estate planning and probate law in Carlsbad and San Diego.
Navigating a Heggstad Petition in San Diego: Understanding Probate Code § 850 for Trust Asset Transfers

Gain insights into Heggstad petitions in San Diego. This key guide explains the probate code § 850 and offers trustees and beneficiaries a streamlined way to confirm that assets left out of a trust were still intended to be included. This process avoids the delays of full probate while ensuring a decedent’s intent is honored. Learn how this petition works and why it is a vital tool in California trust administration.
Protecting an Estate Beneficiary with Addiction Issues through California Estate Planning

Navigate estate planning for a beneficiary with addiction issues in California. Learn to protect their interests with spendthrift trusts and smart strategies.
California Estate Planning Case Study: 21 Real Challenges Solved with Trusts

California Estate Planning Case Study: Discover how real families in California overcame complex legal and financial challenges through smart trust-based strategies. From protecting special needs children to avoiding probate on high-value real estate, these examples highlight practical, attorney-approved solutions.
Where to Store Estate Planning Documents? (7 Best Practices and Tips)

Have you ever wondered “Where should I store my estate planning documents?” If so, you’re not alone. In this blog post, we’ll delve deeper into the best places to store your estate planning documents.
Attorneys for Living Trust vs. DIY Trust Kits: 5 Reasons to Proceed with Caution!

Attorneys for Living Trust beat DIY kits. Discover 5 California-tested reasons—deeds, funding, and child protections—that help San Diego/Carlsbad families avoid probate and costly mistakes. Keep reading → Plus, get a quick checklist to decide when DIY is okay—and when to call a pro.
Opelon LLP’s Lawyer Matt Odgers Named to 2026 Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America

San Diego, August 21, 2025 — Opelon LLP is pleased to announce that partner Matt Odgers lawyer has been included in the 2026 edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America.
What is a Last Will and Testament in California? Ultimate Guide for 2025

Understand the California Last Will and Testament and learn how it can ensure your wishes are honored with clarity and legality.
The Ultimate Guide to San Diego Estate Planning- from Start to Finish (2025 Update)

You may be wondering if this San Diego Estate Planning Guide guide is relevant to your specific situation. The truth is, estate planning is essential for individuals from all walks of life, regardless of age, wealth, or family dynamics.