In 2006, Jerry Schlichter, a St. Louis plaintiff lawyer, began suing 401(k) fiduciaries.  His contention was that retirement plan fiduciaries were not properly overseeing their plans – particularly the duty to make sure fees were “prudent and reasonable.” 

Developing and executing an estate plan is rarely at the top of anyone’s to-do list, but it’s one of the most important pieces of anyone’s financial plan. And by anyone, yes, that includes you!

Regardless of how you feel about the amount of assets you have or whether or not you think estate plans are only for really rich people, the fact is you need one to protect you, your family, and your stuff.

Estate planning is a process designed to help you manage and preserve your assets during your lifetime. Estate plans also conserve and control the distribution of your assets after your death in a way that aligns with your goals and objectives.

Here’s how to tackle this topic and what you need to do to get your own plan in order.

Congratulations to Daniel Lee on receiving the UC Berkeley Extension “Tim Kochis Award for Teaching Excellence.” Daniel, the lead wealth manager of our Bay Area office, teaches several Financial Planning classes and also serves on the school’s advisory board.