It’s not unusual for sellers to want out of a listing agreement. Whether it’s because of a bad experience with an agent or sudden personal changes, it’s important to handle it carefully. In this blog, we'll explain what listing agreements are, why you might want to end one, and how you can do it legally.
The California Court of Appeal in Pateras v. Armenta (2025) held that $5,000 monthly payments received by a father from his tribe’s general welfare program constituted income for child support purposes. The court emphasized that income under California Family Code § 4058 includes all funds available for support, even if non-taxable. The father failed to prove the payments were “need-based public assistance” excluded under the law. This decision reinforces that courts focus on a parent’s financial ability to support their child, not federal tax classifications, and that tribal benefits may count as income if not strictly tied to financial need.
If your trustee refuses to disclose beneficiary details or delays asset distribution, consulting a trust attorney or estate planning attorney is essential. Trustees have strict fiduciary duties, including transparency and timely asset transfers. Beneficiaries hold rights to trust documents, financial accountings, and asset management information. A trust attorney can guide you through requesting formal documentation, mediating disputes, and court interventions to enforce compliance. Legal assistance ensures your rights are protected, trustees meet their obligations, and assets are distributed according to trust terms. Engage a knowledgeable estate planning attorney to resolve disputes efficiently and safeguard the integrity of your loved one’s estate.
Whether you’re concerned about paying too much or not receiving what you’re entitled to, spousal support can dramatically impact your financial future. Courts have a lot of discretion, and each case is deeply fact-specific.
When it comes to estate planning in California, one of the most common and important questions individuals face is: “Do I need a will, a trust, or both for my estate ?” The answer depends largely on your personal circumstances, the nature and size of your estate, and your long-term goals. While both a will and a trust serve the purpose of distributing your assets after death, they differ significantly in structure, legal effect, and the level of control they offer. Understanding the difference is the first step toward making an informed decision about your estate plan.
Discover how to navigate California family law in divorce cases and avoid common pitfalls. Get expert advice now for a smoother legal process.
One of the biggest concerns for undocumented property owners is what happens to their real estate if they are detained or forced to leave the country. Without proper planning, they could lose control over their home or other properties, leaving their families vulnerable to financial instability. However, by utilizing estate planning tools such as trusts, powers of attorney, and pre-arranged real estate sale instructions, undocumented homeowners can ensure their property is protected—even in the worst-case scenario.
When facing a property line dispute, take a deep breath before jumping to conclusions. Remember that you still have to live next to your neighbors, but don't let property line issues go unanswered. Inaction on boundary line disputes could haunt you when it's time to sell and it could also cost you part of your land.
The U.S. Constitution protects property rights for all individuals, including non-citizens, regardless of immigration status. However, managing assets from outside the country can be challenging. Without proper planning, you may face difficulties handling financial transactions, paying debts, or maintaining property. To avoid complications, it’s important to take proactive steps before leaving the U.S.
Muchas personas creen que la deportación resulta en la pérdida automática de sus bienes, pero esto no es cierto. Incluso si es removido de los EE.UU., usted sigue siendo el propietario legal de su propiedad, ya sea una casa, un vehículo, una cuenta bancaria o inversiones. La Constitución de los EE.UU. protege los derechos de propiedad de todas las personas, independientemente de su estatus migratorio.
En California, la custodia de hijos legal y física se refiere a los derechos y obligaciones de los padres al cuidar a sus hijos después de una separación o divorcio. El tribunal toma decisiones basados en las leyes de custodia, sobre la custodia en función de lo que sea mejor para el niño, consid...
A “Joint Petition for Summary Dissolution” (Form FL-800) can be used to ask the court to grant your divorce without paying lots of filing fees and can be done without having to file as many documents. Is a Joint Divorce Request right for you?
Defendants accused of violating California’s Immigration Consultant Act must be prepared for aggressive litigation tactics. Plaintiffs’ attorneys often serve discovery requests immediately after filing a complaint, creating tight deadlines that unrepresented defendants may struggle to meet. Failure to respond can result in default judgments or costly sanctions. The case Immigration Rights Defense Council, LLC v. Nicolas Francisco Gonzalez highlights the consequences of missing deadlines. Defendants can seek relief under Code of Civil Procedure, but proactive legal representation is key. The Law Office of Steve Lopez has experience defending such cases, ensuring timely responses and strategic defense against these tactics.
On January 10, 2025, the California Court of Appeal in In re Marriage of York Goldman clarified the enforceability of old support orders. The court confirmed that child and spousal support orders are enforceable indefinitely under California Family Code § 291, while other financial provisions in divorce judgments may be subject to the laches defense if there’s unreasonable delay causing prejudice to the debtor. This decision emphasizes the importance of timely action in enforcing support orders. If you have an old support order, it’s crucial to consult an attorney to understand your rights and options for collection.
Nada en este mundo es seguro, excepto la muerte y los impuestos. Sin una planificación patrimonial adecuada, las familias pueden enfrentar incertidumbre y dificultades legales tras el fallecimiento de un ser querido. Muchas personas evitan este proceso por desconocimiento o porque creen que es solo para millonarios. Sin embargo, planificar su patrimonio garantiza que sus bienes sean distribuidos según sus deseos y evita que el estado tome decisiones por usted. En la Law Office of Steve Lopez, ubicada en Downey, California, ofrecemos asesoría en planificación patrimonial, sucesiones y litigios testamentarios con un enfoque accesible para la comunidad hispana. Steve Lopez, abogado con amplia experiencia y hablante nativo de español, brinda un servicio personalizado y confiable. Evite el costoso proceso de sucesión y proteja a su familia con la guía de un abogado experto. Asegúrese de que sus deseos se cumplan y alivie la carga legal de sus seres queridos.
With new laws and updates to existing ones, both employers and employees need to stay informed to ensure compliance and protect their rights. From changes in minimum wage requirements to updates on workplace safety and employee leave policies, these laws aim to create a better work environment. In this article, we’ll break updates to California labor laws for 2025 on Discrimination Retaliation, explaining what they mean for workers and businesses alike. Whether you’re an employer navigating compliance or an employee understanding your rights, this guide will help you stay ahead of the curve.
Landlords in Los Angeles County face significant challenges from habitability lawsuits due to strict tenant protections and California’s housing laws. Tenants can sue for issues like mold, plumbing failures, or structural hazards, often seeking damages for medical costs and emotional distress. The Law Offices of Steve Lopez provides expert legal defense, ensuring landlords comply with housing laws while protecting their interests. Our approach includes documenting maintenance efforts, engaging neutral experts, and leveraging fee-shifting statutes to reduce financial risks. We also explore early settlements and insurance coverage strategies to prevent costly litigation. Given Los Angeles County’s aging rental properties and strict regulations, landlords must act proactively to avoid common pitfalls such as ignoring tenant complaints or lacking proper documentation. With tailored defense strategies, the Law Offices of Steve Lopez helps landlords navigate these disputes efficiently, securing favorable resolutions and minimizing legal exposure.
In July of 2024, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 2288 and Senate Bill No. 92 into law, introducing significant changes to California's the Labor Code Private Attorneys General Act of 2004 (PAGA). This legislation would allow employers to reduce their penalties if mitigating factors exist, but also expands on who an employee can file a claim on behalf of.
Adverse possession allows individuals to claim ownership of neglected property if they meet specific legal requirements. In California, claimants must openly and continuously occupy the property for at least five years, pay property taxes during that period, and meet conditions such as hostile, actual, and exclusive possession. Landowners can challenge claims by proving interruptions or legal disabilities. Adverse possession cases are complex, and consulting an experienced attorney is essential for claimants or property owners seeking to protect their rights.
Owning a rental property can be a great investment, but when that property sits vacant, it becomes vulnerable to trespassers, squatters, and potential vandalism. If you have an empty rental property, taking proactive measures to protect it is essential. Two key steps to safeguarding your property are posting "No Trespassing" signs and filing a trespass authorization letter with your local police or sheriff’s department. Here’s what you need to know and why these measures are critical.
A real estate lawyer plays a crucial role in property transactions and disputes, ensuring legal compliance and protecting clients’ interests. In Downey and Los Angeles County, these attorneys practice in the area of drafting contracts, resolving landlord-tenant disputes, handling mortgage or title issues, and litigating real estate cases. They assist buyers and investors with multi-unit properties, advising on zoning laws, disclosures, and tax-efficient strategies. Whether purchasing a home, managing rental properties, or dealing with foreclosure, a skilled real estate lawyer provides peace of mind and safeguards your investment. Their expertise ensures smooth transactions and effective resolution of legal challenges.
The article educates real estate professionals on key differences between AIR and CAR purchase agreements, emphasizing contingency removal, escrow closing, dispute resolution, assignment rights, and estoppel certificates.
In the dynamic world of real estate, fiduciary duty remains a cornerstone of the agent-client relationship. However, a recent California appellate court ruling has brought renewed attention to the legal and financial implications of breaches of fiduciary duty by real estate professionals. This ar...
The Immigrant Rights Defense Council, LLC strengthens immigration consultants' defenses against ICA lawsuits, as it limits a Plaintiff's ability to surcharge the immigration Consultant's Surety bond.
Senate Bill 1103, known as the Commercial Tenant Protection Act (SB 1103) was signed into law on September 30, 2024 and becomes effective on January 1, 2025. The Act extends protections and notice requirements to “qualified commercial tenants”, which previously only applied to residential tenants.
At the Law Offices of Steve Lopez, we represent individuals, families and businesses throughout California in legal matters ranging from Civil Litigation, Family Law, and Estate Planning.