OCBA’S SOLO PRACTICTIONER/SMALL FIRM SECTION: THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME Written by: Dana M. Heyde Article originally appeared in the OC Lawyer August 2025 (click here to read full article) When members of the OCBA Solo Practitioner and Small Firm Section arrive at meetings, they feel as if they have come home. That’s because there...Read More

Imagine this: You’ve built a business empire worth hundreds of millions of dollars, transformed a city’s downtown area, and touched countless lives with your vision and generosity. Then, unexpectedly, you pass away—and nearly five years later, a will you may have created suddenly appears. Meanwhile, your family has been battling creditors, former associates, and mounting...Read More

Gene Hackman’s $80 million fortune is in legal limbo after his wife died just days before he did, highlighting the estate planning crisis that countless families face, including possibly yours. Gene Hackman’s Estate: A Wake-Up Call The recent passing of legendary actor Gene Hackman has revealed a complicated estate situation that serves as a powerful...Read More

Estate planning can seem overwhelming, but understanding a few key concepts can make a world of difference for your family’s future. Common Estate Planning Questions Part 2 When it comes to planning for your family’s future, the options can feel overwhelming. Should you get a will? Create a trust? And what happens if you do...Read More

When it comes to estate planning, I get many questions about many topics. One of the most common questions I hear concerns account ownership and asset management. Understanding how accounts are titled and who has access to them isn’t just about convenience—it’s about ensuring your assets transfer smoothly to your loved ones while protecting them...Read More

When legendary singer Tony Bennett passed away in July 2023, he left behind an estimated $100 million estate and, unfortunately, a family divide threatening to tarnish his legacy. His daughters Antonia and Johanna Bennett are now suing their brother, Danny, who serves as trustee of their father’s estate, alleging a lack of transparency and potential...Read More

When your child turns 18, they’re legally considered an adult even though they have a lot more growing to do (though they may not think so!). Just like any other adult, their health and financial information is protected by privacy laws. But unlike any other adult, that’s still your child and you want to be...Read More

This article was originally published in Orange County Lawyer magazine. pages 28-29 July 2024 OC Lawyer Reprint JULY 2024 Heyde Grochow This article first appeared in Orange County Lawyer, July 2024 (Vol. 66 No. 7), p. 28. The views expressed herein are those of the author. They do not necessarily represent the views of Orange...Read More

As parents, we’re hardwired to prioritize our children’s well-being above all else. We work tirelessly to provide for them, nurture them, and ensure they have every opportunity to thrive. Yet, amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to overlook a crucial aspect of their future: what happens to them if we’re no...Read More

Today, we’re diving into a topic that is absolutely crucial: estate planning for your parents. As they gracefully navigate their golden years, ensuring their peace of mind (and yours!) becomes a top priority. Whether they raised you the way you want, or showed you how you want to do it differently, as your parents’ age,...Read More