What happens to your estate after you are gone is very much within your control. Estate planning is not only for the wealthy; it is for everyone. It is simply the process of deciding where your assets are to be distributed after your death. For those people who wish to preserve their assets for designated purposes — such as family or special charities — it becomes necessary to make special advance preparations. The right plan can protect the value of your estate and spare your loved ones unnecessary hassles and legal conflicts. The Complete Guide to Planning Your Estate in California will help you glide through this complicated process. This new book has been adapted to offer California residents state-specific advice for estate planning. Coauthors Linda C. Ashar, attorney at law, and Sandy Baker have crafted an estate planning primer, allowing California residents to become more informed and more involved during the process. California-specific information is offered throughout this book, including: California‘s probate code; California rules, regulations, and laws specific to estate planning; elements of a valid California will; planning your living will in California; explanations of California laws regarding durable health care power of attorneys, do not resuscitate (DNR) orders, and directives to withhold CPR. The book’s easy-to-understand context clarifies this complicated and sensitive subject and gives readers the power to take control of their future.