DeCosimo Law

Your collection is more than metal and chrome. It's decades of passion, history, and hard work. Without the right estate plan, it could end up stuck in probate court, sold at a fraction of its value, or fought over by family members who don't know a carburetor from a crankshaft.

The good news? California has some great tools to protect what you've built — and 2026 brought some big changes that every collector should know about.

We just published a full breakdown on our blog covering:
✅ The new $15 million federal estate tax exemption (now permanent!)
✅ The stepped-up basis tax advantage that could save your heirs thousands
✅ California's updated probate thresholds for 2026
✅ The Medi-Cal asset rule change that's catching collectors off guard
✅ How to make sure the right car goes to the right person
Whether you have one classic in the garage or a full collection, your legacy deserves a plan. 🔑
Read the full post at the link below — and if you're ready to talk, we'd love to help.



Read more:

Classic Cars & Estate Planning in California: What Every Collector Needs to Know (2026) — DeCosimo Law Own a classic or antique car in California? Learn how to protect your collection with the right estate plan — including 2026 updates on probate thresholds, the stepped-up basis tax advantage, Medi-Cal asset rules, and how California compares to other states.

A sudden loss is hard enough. But when someone dies without an estate plan, grief can quickly turn into confusion, conflict, and legal chaos.

The reported story of Marie-Thérèse Ross-Mahé is a powerful reminder that estate planning is not just about money or inheritance. It is about protecting the people you love when they are most vulnerable.

For blended families, second marriages, homeowners, and families with international ties, having a clear plan in place can make all the difference.

Read our latest blog to learn:
• Why dying without a will creates uncertainty
• How family conflict can escalate after a loss
• Why trusts, powers of attorney, and clear instructions matter
• What families can do now to protect loved ones later



Read more:

Her Husband Died Without a Will. Then ICE Came to the Door | California Estate Planning Lessons — DeCosimo Law The reported story of Marie-Thérèse Ross-Mahé highlights how dying without an estate plan can create family conflict, housing instability, probate problems, and legal confusion. Learn why blended families, second marriages, and international families need proper estate planning in California.

The first 60–120 days after someone passes are where trust administration becomes a legal responsibility, not just a checklist.

In California:
• You must notify heirs and beneficiaries within 60 days
• They have 120 days to contest
• You must inventory assets, secure property, and handle debts properly

Miss a step, and you could be personally liable as trustee.

This guide breaks it down clearly and legally so you can get it right.

Trust Administration California Part 2: Legal Steps and Deadlines in the First 60–120 Days — DeCosimo Law Learn the legally required steps trustees must take in California during the first months after death, including Probate Code §16061.7 notices, asset inventory, EIN setup, debt handling, and fiduciary duties.

Excited to participate in this!