The Important Details Come From Experience
From drafting thousands of estate planning documents over the years, I have learned what concerns people the most when thinking about the legacy they will leave and what issues their loved ones will deal with. From guiding many clients over the years, I have learned what elements are most important to incorporate in estate plans to prevent problems down the road. That accumulated wisdom allows me to help my clients plan thoughtfully for the future and get through the difficult chores of settling a loved one’s estate.
I have practiced law in California for 30 years and the last 18 years have focused my practice in estate planning, probate, and trust administration. In 2011, I established the Law Office of Cheryl A. Forbes, which is one of the few law firms in Tehama County that solely focuses on estate planning, probate, and trust administration.
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Estate Plans Should Be Personal
I believe that wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and advance health care directives should be personalized based on each client’s assets, goals, and values. Therefore, I like to take time to get to know my clients and their circumstances so that I can help them design a unique estate plan.
Estate Administration Doesn’t Have To Be Hard
When it comes to settling a loved one’s estate, family drama is the last thing you want. In my estate planning practice, I emphasize strategies to help my clients clearly express their wishes in hopes to avoid disputes and avoid probate.
If your loved one has passed away and you are named as the successor trustee of their trust or as the executor of their will, or if they have passed away without a will (intestate) and you are willing to administer their estate, then you will be acting in a fiduciary capacity and you should get legal advice to help you understand your duties and responsibilities during the administration.
I educate clients about trust administration and the probate process, and get satisfaction from removing some of the burdens and anxiety for my clients. The administration of an estate can be a job that spans many months, and I do everything I can to help make the process quicker and simpler
Giving Back To A Community That Has Given Me So Much
I feel blessed to live in such an amazing community and I try to give back whenever I can. I have had the pleasure of serving on many boards including the Community Foundation of the North State, Mercy Foundation of the North State, the North State Symphony, Legal Services of Northern California, and the Red Bluff Joint Union High School District. I am also a member of the local Tehama County Bar, the Shasta-Trinity Bar Association, the California Bar Association, and have served on the Trust and Estates Executive Committee of the California Lawyers Association. In addition, I am a member of Kiwanis International and a member of the Red Bluff Chamber of Commerce. My father, Ed Forbes, taught me the virtues of being useful and giving back to the community, and I settled in Northern California because I share many values with the wonderful people here.
You Are Invited To A Free Legal Consultation
I can answer your questions about estate planning, wills and trusts, probate and trust administration. To arrange for a free consultation, call me today at 530-527-7500 or use my online contact form.
