🎧 Episode Overview

In this essential episode I speak with seasoned estate planning attorney Judith Perez, who brings over 36 years of experience in trust administration, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and special needs planning.

Whether you're in a same-sex partnership, caring for a loved one with special needs, or simply want your estate plan to reflect your values—this episode is a must-listen. We dive deep into the unique legal considerations that impact families often overlooked in traditional estate conversations.

🔑 Key Takeaways

• Why Everyone Over 18 Needs a Will, Advance Directive, and Durable Power of Attorney
  
  Estate planning isn't just for the wealthy. Judith explains the baseline documents everyone should have in place.
  
  

• How Estate Planning Differs for LGBTQ+ Couples
  
  Learn the legal protections—and limitations—for same-sex partners, especially when not legally married.
  
  

• Protecting Chosen Family with the Right Legal Language
  
  "Chosen family" has no legal standing unless you name them properly. Here's how to do it.
  
  

• What Is a Special Needs Trust—and Why It Matters
  
  Discover the three types of special needs trusts, when to use them, and how they protect both assets and benefits.
  
  

• Real Estate Pitfalls Without Proper Planning
  
  Judith shares real-life scenarios where families lost control of a home simply due to titling or missed trust language.
  
  

• Why DIY Estate Planning Can Backfire
  
  From LegalZoom fails to probate nightmares—here's why hiring an experienced attorney makes a difference.
  
  

• When to Have "The Talk" About Your Estate Plan
  
  Hint: It's sooner than you think. Learn how to start the conversation with loved ones.
  
  

🧠 Who This Episode Is For

• LGBTQ+ individuals and couples
  
  

• Families with children or adult dependents with special needs
  
  

• Homeowners unsure of how to structure their trusts
  
  

• Adult children supporting aging parents
  
  

• Anyone who hasn't created a will or trust yet
  
  

👩‍⚖️ About Judith

Judith Perez is an estate planning attorney practicing in California for over three decades. She specializes in working with LGBTQ+ families, same-sex couples, the elderly, and those caring for loved ones with disabilities. She has served as Chair of the Probate and Estate Planning Section of the San Fernando Valley Bar Association and was previously President of the National Association of Women Business Owners - Ventura County.