Law Office of Frank J. Terrazas, Esq

Estate planning always seems like it is "for somebody else". That is absolutely not true! Estate planning is exactly that, "planning". Not only does a good estate plan help to avoid Probate (which can be very costly $$$) but is also helps to PLAN for the unexpected. A young parent's estate plan should have Child Care Directives that allows a car taker to provide medical instructions if the parents are away. A good estate plan is taking a little time and effort NOW to make sur...e that your family and friends do not have added stress at a time when they are grieving a loss. Estate Planning is necessary for a young adult just as much as an accomplished retiree. In the words of Lil Wayne, "The more time you spend contemplating what you should have done... you lose valuable time planning what you can and will do. Now is the right time to put your mind at ease.

California is a community property state and ensures both spouses share in the property acquired during the marriage. We have seen great strides to extend these rights to same-sex couples, and registered domestic partners. But there is still an "elephant in the room". Few people consider the ramifications of a non-marital relationship that extends for a long period of time. These are common in young adults who are financially independent but acquire property (usually furnitur...e or cars together), and in older couples who have been divorced and would rather remain in long term relationships rather than re-marry. A non-marital agreement can be of great importance after even a non-marital (or dating) relationship ends. A written agreement can be highly beneficial in avoiding costly litigation or securing your own property when a scorned lover tries to hurt you. Even if you think not being married means you don't owe the other person anything, the Court in California can use an oral or implied agreement as a basis to award property on an equitable basis. (This is known as a "Marvin" action.) Rather than be subject to a "he said-she said", have both people put their intentions in writing. Make sure what you have worked hard to accumulate remains yours in the event of the break-up of a relationship. Hopefully the relationship continues to grow, but a little thought now can save a lot of money and heartache in the future.

My goal for today is to do an act of charity. Something in which I expect nothing in return, and no recognition. This post is not to seek such recognition, but to hopefully set a wave in motion. Our world has enough hate and violence. If each of us tries to do one selfless act our world will be safer and happier for ALL.

Elimination of bias is something attorneys, judges, and parties deal with while involved in a legal dispute. The process can be frustrating, overwhleming, and down right ornery. This is an example of a judge losing her demeanor. She placed three young children in juvenile detention custody for not wanting to participate in court ordered visitation with their father. One of the "fine "lines" that must be walked during a custody case is where does the children's voice and the parent's rights meet. http://www.abajournal.com//judge_who_detained_kids_for_re/

The opening paragraph is one of the most important things an attorney can consider. A good attorney will counsel the client so that emotions don't drive the case. When that happens money can quickly be depleted and both sides ultimately lose. A good attorney "Picks the hill on which he/she dies upon". https://www.sdcba.org/index.cfm?pg=FTR-Jun-2016-5

One of my clients had ignored getting divorced for 10 years. She never wanted to seek child support because she didn't want her ex husband's money. However, what she didn't realize is that by not seeking child support she was taking money away from her child. Child support is not only for day-to-day financial support, but can also be used to build a college savings for a child.

As of January 1, 2019 the Law Office of Frank J. Terrazas has joined Garwood Attorneys, ALC

I am thankful for the beautiful and wonderful family i have been given. I am also thankful that I get to do what I love everyday in the office. I am also thankful that I can be a counselor, advocate, and friend to people during a very stressful and emotional time in their lives. Tell someone "thank you" for what they do. Have a HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!!

I am running to the Execute Committee of the County Bar Family Law Section. To all those attorney friends of mine who will be voting, please consider electing me. Hopefully it goes without saying that you have the confidence that I will bring a strong commitment and pride with the position.

In the practice of law too many people (including attorneys and parties) get blinded by the fight and the litigation. I had the pleasure this week of helping two life long friends move forward with their lives and stay focused on what is best for the child. It was refreshing to see two people work together in a amicable manner without the need for unnecessary litigation. Sometimes litigation is truly necessary, but when both sides put away the swords and resolve the issues everyone walks away feeling good.