Insights & Analysis


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Does Transferring Property to a Trust Trigger Reassessment in California?

California’s property tax rules treat some trust transfers as a change in ownership—leading to reassessment and higher taxes. Regulation 18 CCR § 462.160 outlines when those transfers occur in the context of trust transfers and what exemptions apply. Learn how revocable vs. irrevocable trusts, beneficiary designations, and trust termination events can affect your property tax bill—and how to plan ahead to preserve your Prop 13 base.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Express Easements

An express easement is a legally documented right that allows someone to use another’s property for a specific purpose—such as access or utilities. This FAQ covers the essentials: how express easements are created, enforced, and terminated; how they affect property value; and what property owners should consider before granting one. Whether you're dealing with a landlocked parcel or utility access, understanding express easements is crucial to protecting your real estate interests.

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Anatomy of a Contract: The Basics

Contracts are foundational to business success, but their structure can be confusing. In this article we break down four key sections—preamble, recitals, covenants, and representations/warranties—to help small business owners read, negotiate, and enforce contracts with clarity and confidence.

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Does Your Small Business Need a General Counsel Subscription?

Legal issues can surface at any stage of your business—often when you least expect them. This article explores how a general counsel subscription can help small business owners stay compliant, mitigate risk, and make smarter decisions—without the high cost of hiring in-house counsel.

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Five Reasons Business Owners Need Estate Plans

What happens to your business if you become incapacitated or pass away? Many business owners overlook estate planning, risking everything they’ve built. Here are five key reasons you need an estate plan to protect your company, your family, and your legacy.

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