Business transactions, whether buying, selling, or merging, require a lot of legal work that can be difficult and overwhelming to navigate. With that, California residents who are business owners or who are about to engage in a business transaction must seek the help of a business transactions attorney. In California, the expertise of an attorney can play a major role in ensuring the smooth and successful completion of a transaction. 1. Legal Documentation A business transaction attorney can help ensure that the whole process of a business transaction is well-documented. The attorney can take care of creating and filing all necessary documents in compliance with California law, such as agreements, licenses, and legal contracts. With this documentation in place and done correctly, there is a significantly less chance of future litigation. 2. Expert Advice on Business Structure Business structure plays an important role in a transaction’s success. And this can be tricky, especially for business owners who have limited legal knowledge. A business transactions attorney can help identify the right business structure that suits a particular transaction, and guide business owners to avoid any possible legal or financial risks. 3. Thorough Assessment of Legal Implications Business transactions can bring both opportunities and risks, and legal implications always come along with it. A business transactions attorney can conduct a thorough assessment of all legal implications of any potential transaction, allowing the business owner to fully understand the risks involved, as well as how to mitigate such risks. 4. Negotiation and Closing Deals A competent business transactions attorney can help in negotiating with parties involved in the transaction, ensuring that terms and agreements are clear and not left open to interpretation. The attorney can also assist a business owner in closing the deal successfully. 5. Ongoing Legal Support After the completion of a business transaction, there may still be some matters that require legal assistance, such as disputes with the parties involved or other legal issues that may arise. A business transactions attorney can provide legal support and advice in such cases, providing peace of mind to the business owner that someone will be there to help them navigate any legal matters. Business transactions are often complicated and require a sharp legal mind on your side to make sure your best interests are represented. California residents can benefit greatly from engaging the services of a business transactions attorney, as they can help in all stages of the transaction, from legal documentation and advice on business structure to thorough assessment of legal implications and ongoing legal support. By hiring a business transactions attorney, a California business owner can ensure they are legally protected and secure in any business transaction they choose to undertake.

Divorce is a challenging process - it's a real-life lesson that no one quite prepares you for. On top of dealing with emotions, there is the legal aspect to consider as well, and that's where the real challenge can come in. In California, a contested divorce may take much longer to resolve than an uncontested one. However, before we dive into how long it can take, let's first define what a contested divorce is. In California, a contested divorce is one where the spouses can't agree on important issues like spousal support, child support, child custody, property division, and so on. More often than not, this will lead to litigation, which can take time. Lawyers will need to gather evidence, make several court appearances, and file motions. All of these things can drag on for many months or even years. Additionally, many factors can impact the timeline for your divorce case. One specific contested divorce issue that's a significant source of contention is child custody. The court will consider the 'best interests' of the child when ruling on custody. The well-being and security of the child take priority over everything else. The court will thus have to consider several factors like the child's age, health, and educational needs to make the best decision possible. As you can imagine, child custody battles can be long, emotional, and challenging for everyone involved, especially for the children. If you're planning on going through a contested divorce in California, hiring a good attorney is essential to ensure that you get the best representation possible. An experienced lawyer can help you streamline the whole process to prevent it from dragging longer than necessary, as well as offer you the best legal advice. Your attorney will be able to assist you in gathering essential documentation, presenting arguments in court, and handling any appeals if necessary. It's worth noting that the length of a contested divorce depends on many different factors. The complexity of the issues involved, the willingness of both parties to negotiate, how quickly the court schedules hearings, and many other things can all impact how long the legal proceedings will take. As a result, it's incredibly tough to predict exactly how long the process will last. However, if you're very organized, cooperative, and have a seasoned attorney to advise you throughout the process, your divorce settlement may get resolved sooner than expected.  A contested divorce can take a long time to resolve in California due to the adversarial nature of the legal process. However, an experienced attorney can help streamline the process by providing you with proper guidance, support, and expertise. Do your research when looking for an attorney, choose someone who has a lot of experience in contested divorces and can guide you through the tough times. Finally, it's critical to keeping in mind that the longer the litigation process takes, the more expenses you're likely to incur, so it's always best to explore alternative dispute resolution options if possible.

If you are a Californian resident dealing with the passing of a loved one, then you may have heard about probate but might be wondering what it entails and how long it might take. Probate is a legal process that transfers the property of a deceased person to their heirs or beneficiaries after all the debts and liabilities are paid. Probate can be a complicated and time-consuming process, and it can take several months to complete. In this blog, we will go through how long probate might take, the reasons why it might take months to complete, and how an attorney can assist you through the process. The length of probate depends on several factors, such as the size of the estate, whether the will is contested or not, and how complex the assets and liabilities are. In California, probate usually takes about a year to complete, sometimes more, and usually not less. It often takes this long because of the complexity of the process itself, the need for court hearings, paperwork to be filed, and waiting period imposed by state laws. In addition, if the estate is large or subject to higher taxes, the probate could take up to several years. The process of probate may take months because of a few reasons. First, the court will need to locate all potential heirs, and they will have to be given time to make claims and objections before distribution can begin. Second, if the will is contested, probate may take longer as the court will need to hear all sides and decide accordingly. Third, if the decedent held assets in other states or countries, it may require additional legal counsel, and this too will impact how quickly an estate is probated. Many people find that hiring an attorney is beneficial when dealing with probate. An attorney can provide guidance and support throughout the probate process. An attorney can also assist in ensuring that the probate is done correctly and efficiently, working with you to gather the necessary documentation and paperwork and file it with the courts. They can make sure the necessary legal notices are published, deadlines are met, and the inventory of assets is done appropriately to minimize the amount of time it takes for the probate process. Probate is a complex process, and dealing with it in times of grief can be challenging. An attorney can help take the burden off your shoulders and ensure that everything is handled correctly so you can focus on handling your personal matters. They can also assist in ensuring that the beneficiaries of the estate receive what they are legally entitled to receive. In conclusion, probate is a legal process that is both complex and time-consuming. While it can take several months or even years in some cases, hiring an attorney can help speed the process along while ensuring accuracy and efficiency. If you are a Californian resident dealing with probate, consider contacting an attorney for guidance and support. The right attorney can work with you to ensure that everything is handled correctly and in accordance with the law, allowing you to focus on personal matters during this difficult time. 

Spousal support, or alimony, is a court-ordered payment made by one spouse to the other after a divorce or separation. While it is typically awarded in cases where one spouse earned significantly more than the other during the marriage, it can also be ordered in cases where one spouse is unable to support themselves. Spousal support is meant to provide financial support for the lower-earning spouse, and often plays an important role in their ability to maintain a certain standard of living after the divorce or separation. However, what happens if the spouse who is ordered to pay spousal support is unable to meet their obligations? This can be a concerning thought for many divorcing individuals in California. In this blog post, we will discuss what can happen if you are unable to pay spousal support in California. 1. Court Enforcement If you are ordered to pay spousal support and fail to do so, the court can enforce the order through various remedies. These include wage garnishment, bank account levies, and even the issuance of a warrant for your arrest. Additionally, you may face penalties, such as fines, for failing to pay spousal support on time. 2. Modification or Termination of Support If you are having trouble paying spousal support, it is possible to seek a modification or termination of the support order. To do so, you would need to demonstrate a significant change in circumstances, such as a decrease in income or the loss of a job. If you are successful in seeking a modification or termination, the court may adjust the amount of support you are required to pay or terminate the order altogether. 3. Payment Plans In some cases, the court may be willing to work with you to create a payment plan that allows you to make smaller, more frequent payments towards your spousal support obligation. This can be particularly helpful in cases where the paying spouse is facing temporary financial difficulties, such as a sudden loss of income. 4. Debt Collection Agencies In some cases, when a paying spouse continues to neglect their obligation to pay spousal support, the other spouse may seek the assistance of a debt collection agency. These agencies can provide valuable resources for collecting court-ordered support. 5. Legal Consequences In extreme cases, non-payment of spousal support can result in legal consequences that may impact your ability to secure credit or obtain certain types of employment. Additionally, failing to comply with a court-ordered support obligation can damage your standing in future court proceedings and may even result in contempt of court charges. Spousal support is an important component of many divorce or separation proceedings in California. While it may seem daunting to face the possibility of being unable to pay, there are options available to you. Seeking a modification or termination of a spousal support order, working with the court to develop a payment plan, or seeking the assistance of a debt collection agency can all help mitigate the consequences of non-payment. Remember, maintaining open communication with your former spouse or partner, and seeking the assistance of a legal professional whenever needed, can go a long way in ensuring that you are able to meet your obligations and move on from the divorce or separation as smoothly as possible.

Understanding Spousal Support In California Divorce can be a difficult and stressful process for anyone. It is important to understand the factors that a court considers when making decisions regarding spousal support in California, as well as your options if you are unable to pay or if your ex-spouse refuses to comply with the court order. At Wick Legal Group, we specialize in assisting residents of Los Angeles with divorce matters, including spousal support. Factors A Court Will Consider During A California Divorce When a couple gets divorced, the court will consider several factors before making a decision regarding spousal support. Some of these factors include the length of the marriage, each spouse's income and earning capacity, the standard of living during the marriage, and the health and age of each spouse. The court will also consider any other relevant factors, such as the contributions each spouse made to the marriage, including child care and housekeeping. How Is Spousal Support Calculated In California Once the court has considered all relevant factors, it will determine the amount and duration of spousal support. In California, there is no set formula for calculating spousal support, but rather a number of factors which are considered on a case-by-case basis. These factors include the income of each spouse, the length of the marriage, the marital standard of living, and the needs of each spouse. Generally, spousal support is calculated as a percentage of the higher earning spouse's income, with the percentage increasing with the length of the marriage. What Happens If I Am Unable To Pay Spousal Support If you are unable to pay spousal support, it is important to act quickly and inform your ex-spouse and the court of your financial situation. You may need to request a modification of the spousal support order if your financial circumstances have changed. Failing to pay spousal support can result in serious consequences, such as wage garnishment or even being held in contempt of court. What Are My Options If My Ex Refuses To Pay Spousal Support If your ex-spouse refuses to pay spousal support, there are legal options available to you, such as filing a motion for contempt of court. This motion can be filed with the court to enforce the spousal support order and may result in serious consequences for your ex-spouse, including fines and even jail time in extreme cases. In conclusion, spousal support in California can be a complex and confusing area of law. It is important to understand the factors considered by a court when making a decision regarding spousal support, as well as your options if you are unable to pay or your ex-spouse refuses to comply with the court order. At Wick Legal Group, we are here to help residents of Los Angeles navigate the divorce process and ensure that their rights and interests are protected. 

Estate Tax Law: Will the Current Gift and Estate Tax Exemption Level Change? Introduction The estate tax is a tax levied on the transfer of property after an individual's death. This tax has been around since the United States implemented its first estate tax law in 1916. The purpose of the estate tax is to generate revenue for the government, as well as to prevent the concentration of wealth and the creation of a permanent aristocracy. The estate tax law has undergone numerous changes over the years, and the current gift and estate tax exemption level has been a topic of discussion for many years. This essay aims to provide an overview of the estate tax law, including its history, purpose, and current status. Additionally, this essay will examine the arguments for and against changing the current gift and estate tax exemption level and will provide a conclusion based on available information. History of Estate Tax Law The United States implemented its first estate tax law in 1916, during World War I. The estate tax was initially created to help fund the war effort. The estate tax was abolished in 1926 but was later reinstated in 1932 as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal. Since then, the estate tax has undergone numerous changes, including changes to the exemption level and tax rate. Purpose of Estate Tax Law The estate tax serves two primary purposes. Firstly, the estate tax generates revenue for the government. Secondly, the estate tax helps prevent the concentration of wealth and the creation of a permanent aristocracy. The estate tax is designed to ensure that the wealthiest individuals pay their fair share of taxes and that their wealth is not concentrated in the hands of a few individuals. The estate tax also helps to prevent the accumulation of wealth over generations, which can lead to a permanent aristocracy. Current Status of Estate Tax Law The current gift and estate tax exemption level is $11.7 million per person, or $23.4 million for a married couple. This means that individuals can pass on up to $11.7 million of assets to their heirs without paying any estate tax. Any assets above this amount are subject to a 40% tax. The current gift tax exemption is also $11.7 million per person. This means that individuals can give away up to $11.7 million in gifts during their lifetime without paying any gift tax. Any gifts above this amount are subject to a 40% tax. Arguments for Changing the Current Gift and Estate Tax Exemption Level There are several arguments for changing the current gift and estate tax exemption level. Firstly, some argue that the current exemption level is too high and that it only benefits the wealthiest individuals. They argue that lowering the exemption level would generate more revenue for the government and help to reduce income inequality. Secondly, some argue that the current exemption level is unfair and that it penalizes individuals who do not have the same level of wealth. They argue that the estate tax should be based on a person's ability to pay, rather than on the value of their assets. The current gift and estate tax exemption level of $11.7 million per person (or $23.4 million for a married couple) is set to expire on December 31, 2025. After that date, the exemption level is scheduled to revert to its pre-2018 level, which was $5 million per person (or $10 million for a married couple), adjusted for inflation. However, it is important to note that the exemption level could be changed before it expires through new legislation or executive action. Why Do I Care? For most people, this is not an issue. But, for the baby boomer generation that quietly amassed a collection of California Real Estate holdings over the years, all those 1031 exchanges likely landed you in a place where your individual wealth exceeds (or will exceed) the $5 million exemption level that will come back into place on January 1, 2026. Naturally, you don't plan to die in the next few years and you don't want to stick your kids and loved ones with a HUGE tax bill that will likely result in the liquidation of your real estate holdings. Well there is some good news. It is possible to give away your estate as a gift now under the current gift and estate tax exemption levels and potentially avoid the estate tax if you die after 2026. However, it's important to note that there are some limitations and rules that apply to these gifts. Currently, individuals can give away up to $11.7 million in gifts during their lifetime without paying any gift tax. Any gifts above this amount are subject to a 40% tax. If you give away assets during your lifetime and your total gifts exceed the $11.7 million exemption amount, the excess amount will be subject to gift tax. If you give away assets during your lifetime, those assets will be removed from your estate for estate tax purposes. This means that if you die after 2026, your estate may be subject to a lower estate tax because the value of your estate has been decreased by the gifts you made during your lifetime. However, it's important to note that there are some limitations and rules that apply to these gifts. For example, gifts made within three years of your death may be subject to estate tax. Additionally, there are rules regarding the types of gifts that are exempt from gift tax, such as gifts to a spouse or to a qualified charity. It's important to consult with a tax professional or estate planning attorney to determine the best strategy for your specific situation and to ensure that you comply with all applicable laws and regulations. 

Understanding Child Support: What You Need To Know Child support is a critical aspect of family law that many people go through. However, navigating the complexities of child support calculations and ensuring that payments are made on time can be overwhelming. Understanding various child support aspects is the first step in ensuring that you make informed decisions for your family's future. In this blog post, we explore how child support is calculated, what happens if you are unable to pay child support, your options if your ex-spouse refuses to pay, and the circumstances under which child support payments can stop. How Is Child Support Calculated? Calculating child support payments is essential to ensure that a child has access to the necessary support and resources they need. In California, child support is calculated by considering several factors, including both parent's gross income, time spent with the child, tax filing status, and other expenses such as health insurance premiums. The court uses the state's child support guidelines as a baseline for calculating child support, but other factors can influence the final amount. Consulting a family law attorney can help you understand how child support is calculated, what formula applies to your specific case, and help you navigate the complexities of the legal process. What Happens If I Am Unable To Pay Child Support? If you are unable to pay child support due to circumstances beyond your control, such as job loss or a medical emergency, it is essential to seek legal help to avoid legal repercussions. You can request a child support modification hearing from the court to reduce the amount temporarily or seek temporary financial assistance. Ignoring child support payments can lead to significant legal trouble, with court consequences ranging from a license suspension or even imprisonment for non-payment. What Are My Options If My Ex Refuses To Pay Child Support? If your ex-spouse refuses to pay child support, you can seek legal enforcement through the court. The state of California offers various enforcement tools to ensure payment, including wage garnishment, liens, and contempt of court orders. Seeking legal assistance from a family law attorney can help you understand your options and create a plan to pursue legal enforcement effectively. Do Child Support Payments Stop Once The Child Is 18? In California, child support payments continue until the child reaches the age of 18, or until the child finishes high school or is living independently out of the family home. However, in specific circumstances where a minor requires additional support due to health reasons, the court can order support past the age of 18. Child support payments stop automatically once the child meets these requirements. Navigating child support can be a complex and overwhelming process. Understanding various aspects of child support, including how it's calculated, the consequences of non-payment, and enforcement options, is vital in ensuring that your child's needs are met. At Wick Legal Group, we are committed to providing legal assistance and guidance to California families going through a range of family law matters. Contact us for a consultation and start making informed decisions for your family's future. 

Planning For The Future: Understanding The Consequences Of Dying Without A Will Death is inevitable, yet despite this understanding, many people avoid estate planning. They view it as the act of preparing for death or believe that it's only important for the wealthy. However, estate planning is essential for everyone, regardless of their net worth. It's a way of ensuring that your affairs are in order in case the worst happens. Unfortunately, if you die without a will or estate plan, your assets and property may not end up where you intended them to go. In this blog, we'll explore the consequences of dying without a will, the importance of estate planning, and the steps involved in drafting a will. What Happens If I Die Without A Will? If you don't have a will, your assets and property will be distributed according to intestate succession laws. These laws vary from state to state, but generally, they prioritize your spouse, children, and other close family members over distant relatives or friends. For instance, in California, if you have a surviving spouse and children, your surviving spouse will inherit all community property, and your children will inherit your separate property. If you have no spouse or children, your property will pass to your parents, siblings, or other relatives, depending on the circumstances. While these laws are in place to ensure that someone inherits your assets, they may not align with your intentions. Without a will, you have no control over how your property is distributed. Also, you may not get a say in who takes care of minor children, pets, or any other dependents you may have. Steps Involved In Drafting A Will Drafting a will is an essential part of a comprehensive estate plan. It's a legal document that outlines your wishes and how your assets should be distributed after your death. Here are the steps involved in drafting a will: 1. Start by assessing your assets: Before you write a will, take stock of your assets and liabilities. This includes your property, bank accounts, investments, retirement accounts, and any other assets or debts. 2. Name an executor: An executor is the person who will be in charge of carrying out your wishes after your death. Choose someone you trust to handle your estate. 3. Decide how to divide your assets: Your will should detail how you want your assets distributed. You can be as specific or general as you like. 4. Consider guardianship: If you have minor children or dependents, your will should name a guardian to take care of them in case both parents die. 5. Sign and witness your will: Your will should be signed in the presence of at least two witnesses who are over 18, and you must be of sound mind. At The Wick Legal Group, we can assist Los Angeles residents with estate planning matters. We offer a comprehensive estate planning service that can help you create a will, establish trusts, and more. Contact us today to schedule a consultation about your estate planning needs. Estate planning isn't a one-time event - it's a continuous process that requires attention and updates as your life circumstances change. A will outlines your wishes and ensures that your assets are distributed according to your intentions. It also makes life easier for your loved ones during a difficult time. Remember, dying without a will can be costly and time-consuming for your heirs. By working with a reputable estate planning attorney, you can create an estate plan that protects your interests and those of your family. 

Selling Your Property In Los Angeles County If you are a resident of Los Angeles County and are looking to sell your property, there are several important things to consider. From tax implications to factors that can affect the price of your house, it is essential that you understand the process before making any major decisions. At Wick Legal Group, we can assist the public during this often complicated process. Let’s take a look at what you should know when selling your house in Los Angeles County. Steps To Sell Your Property The first step when selling your property is to obtain a real estate broker or agent who will list your home for sale on multiple websites including Zillow and Trulia. This means that potential buyers can quickly view information about your property and contact an agent if they would like to view the home in person. The real estate agent will also provide advice on how best to market the property and set a competitive price. Factors That Affect Price When setting the price of your property, there are many factors that must be taken into account. These include location, age of the building, condition of the building, local school districts, crime rates and nearby amenities such as parks or shopping centers. It is also important to consider market trends as well as whether or not there has been recent construction in the area that may have an effect on pricing. Additionally, some properties may require additional features such as energy-efficient appliances or solar panels which could increase the value of a home. Tax Implications Of Selling Property Tax implications vary from state to state but generally speaking, when you sell a property you may be required to pay capital gains tax on any profits made from selling it. Additionally, any fees associated with closing costs must also be taken into consideration when setting a price for your property. It is important to consult with an experienced professional who can guide you through this complicated process and ensure that all necessary paperwork is filed correctly so that you do not incur any penalties down the road. When it comes time to sell your house in Los Angeles County there are many things that need consideration such as taxes, fees and market conditions. It is important to consult with an experienced professional who can guide you through this often complex process so that everything goes smoothly and without issue. At Wick Legal Group we have years of experience assisting clients during every step of this process so please reach out if we can help make selling your house in Los Angeles County easier than ever before!