Planning Peace of Mind
for Your Loved Ones

Planning Peace of Mind for Your Loved Ones

Estate Planning Attorney in Bakersfield

Supporting Families and Their Legacies Throughout Southern California

With Robert Brumfield and his dedicated legal staff on your side, you can rest assured that all of your concerns regarding your future are taken care of so you can focus on living in the present. Even if you’re not certain you might necessarily need estate planning services, a free consultation may reveal you have more work to do than you realized, whether that’s ensuring a past divorce doesn’t impact your will or ensuring your loved ones aren’t forced to enter a lengthy probate process.

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Estate Planning Attorney in Bakersfield

The motto of the American Boy Scouts is “Always Be Prepared.” Although this advice mostly applies to adventures in the great outdoors, it’s also a mantra to live your life by. Whether it’s buying car insurance to protect against a possible accident or putting money away for retirement, planning for the worst allows you to enjoy the best.

That’s the service we provide at The Law Offices of Robert H. Brumfield, P.C.

Estate planning is a legal strategy that allows you to plan for your golden years, whether it’s ensuring your healthcare wishes are known and respected, securing your loved ones’ inheritance, or something else. While many people are familiar with the concept of wills, a will is only one vital yet small component of a larger estate plan. With Robert Brumfield and his dedicated legal staff on your side, you can rest assured that all of your concerns regarding your future are taken care of so you can focus on living in the present. Even if you’re not certain you might necessarily need estate planning services, a free consultation may reveal you have more work to do than you realized, whether that’s ensuring a past divorce doesn’t impact your will or ensuring your loved ones aren’t forced to enter a lengthy probate process.

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Services

Our Practice Areas

Probate

Every estate must enter probate following a person’s death. Proper planning can help you ensure you avoid a time-consuming and expensive probate process.

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Advance Healthcare Directives

Advance healthcare directives allow you to take charge of your own health regardless of the circumstances. Whether you’re incapacitated due to aging, sickness, or an accident, an advance healthcare directive provides doctors and your loved ones a roadmap for your care.

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Powers of Attorney

Granting a trusted loved one power of attorney ensures they’re empowered with all the legal resources they need to oversee your healthcare and manage your finances in the event you’re incapacitated.

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Inheritance

Inheritances are a wonderful way to leave behind a lasting legacy and secure your loved ones’ future. Many people mistakenly believe that leaving behind an inheritance is a simple process. Having an attorney help navigate the process of leaving an inheritance is imperative to ensure your intended heirs receive what you intend.

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Trusts

Trusts permit you to transfer ownership of certain assets away from yourself to avoid potential challenges involving probate and inheritance. Medicaid planning trusts additionally provide a path for reducing your net worth to qualify for more benefits.

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Wills

Wills are simple yet necessary components of every estate plan. While a will is not a one-size-fits-all approach to leaving assets to your heirs, everyone needs a will to ensure their loved ones can avoid a potentially long and expensive probate process.

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Medicaid Planning

Qualifying for Medicaid means meeting certain financial requirements that many Bakersfield residents find difficult to achieve. Strategic investment, gifting, and use of trusts can ensure you qualify for the benefits you need most.

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Estate Litigation

A missing or unclear will can lead to questions regarding inheritance and other assets. In some instances, in addition to probate, you may find yourself in litigation against friends or even family members. If this happens, contact an experienced attorney.

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Estate Planning for Minor Children

Special considerations must be taken into account when a minor child stands to potentially inherit an estate. You may also wish to make estate plans for your child. Our experienced and compassionate attorney can help guide you in this process.

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Blended Families

Marrying a new partner with children from a previous relationship is a wonderful way to extend your family. Simply marrying a child’s parent does not automatically make them your heirs. Consulting an experienced blended family attorney can ensure your new children are taken care of.

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What is Estate Planning?

Estate planning is a legal strategy that accounts for all possible concerns as you enter your golden years and as a person approaches the end of life. While most people are familiar with the concept of wills, a will is only one component of an estate plan. A will is essential for establishing key components of a person’s estate and their wishes for it. This includes naming an executor, assigning beneficiaries to certain assets, establishing custody for minor children or disabled adults, and making funeral plans. Although some smaller estates may only require a will, most people benefit from a broader estate plan.

An estate plan includes, but is not necessarily limited to:

A Will

Trusts

Advance Healthcare Directive

HIPAA Authorization

Power of Attorney

An estate plan includes, but is not necessarily limited to:

A Will

Trusts

Advance Healthcare Directive

HIPAA Authorization

Power of Attorney

The goal of an estate plan is to have solutions in place for every possible contingency that a person may face. This includes becoming disabled or incapacitated due to illness, an accident, death, or simple aging. Most people find that they can benefit from some form of estate planning services.

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Client Success Stories

Real results from real clients who trusted us to fight for their rights.

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Why is Estate Planning Necessary?

Estate planning is vital for addressing concerns related to two key periods in a person’s life: old age and end-of-life.

Old age planning is necessary because it allows a person to ensure their affairs are in order and that their assets will go to their intended beneficiaries. Many people assume that, when they pass away, their loved ones can “simply” divide assets among themselves. The truth is far more complex. Even the closest families can easily get into arguments and disputes over cherished heirlooms or especially sentimental belongings. In other instances, hurt feelings and lingering resentments can lead to a potentially messy and drawn-out probate process. An estate plan that lays out a clear plan of succession and asset distribution ensures that your loved ones can focus on what matters most during a trying time.

Estate plans are also essential for easing the transition into the end of life. This type of estate planning can take place at any time, as it anticipates concerns related to both aging and potential illness. A key component of every estate plan is an advance healthcare directive. This is a vital document that ensures your healthcare concerns will be respected, regardless of your age, even if you are unable to make your wishes known.

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Why is Estate Planning Necessary?

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Our Attorney

Meet Bob H. Brumfield

Over my years in practice, I have represented numerous private businesses and individuals in the areas of trusts and estates, asset protection planning business law, all aspects of real estate, water law, oil and gas, and insolvency and bankruptcy for creditors. I also serve as a mediator, handling mediations in all of the areas in which I practice.

A native of New Orleans, I have practiced law in Bakersfield since 1986 and recently expanded by opening an office in Mammoth Lakes.

About Bob H.

Our Attorney

Meet Bob H. Brumfield

Over my years in practice, I have represented numerous private businesses and individuals in the areas of trusts and estates, asset protection planning business law, all aspects of real estate, water law, oil and gas, and insolvency and bankruptcy for creditors. I also serve as a mediator, handling mediations in all of the areas in which I practice. 

A native of New Orleans, I have practiced law in Bakersfield since 1986 and recently expanded by opening an office in Mammoth Lakes.

About Bob H.

What is an Advance Healthcare Directive?

An advance healthcare directive is a legal document that provides an outline for your medical care in the event you are unable to make your wishes known yourself. This includes going into a coma, being incapacitated in a car wreck, suffering a stroke, or even due to the effects of dementia. An advance healthcare directive contains instructions for your loved ones to follow, including what type of life-saving care you do or do not want to receive, the type of treatment you wish to receive under specific circumstances, whether you wish to be an organ donor, and more. In addition to an advance healthcare directive, an estate plan also contains a power of attorney authorization, granting a trusted individual the right to make medical decisions on your behalf, according to your instructions. A HIPAA authorization will also allow your representative access to your medical records and grant them the right to discuss your healthcare with doctors. This empowers you to make decisions regarding your own care, even if you may not be able to communicate them at the time.

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What is an Advance Healthcare Directive?

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Why Choose Us?

We Offer Happiness

We believe great work starts with a great environment. Our team genuinely enjoys what we do and takes pride in helping clients through some of life’s most important moments. A positive workplace allows us to bring that same energy and care to every client we serve. We believe a happy environment can translate into happy clients.

We Offer Quality

Every matter deserves careful attention. We are committed to providing thorough, thoughtful, and high-quality legal work because our clients’ peace of mind depends on it. We’re committed to providing Bakersfield and Kern County residents the absolute highest quality available in estate planning services and legal care. We strive to be the best so we can provide you with the best representation available.

Balance & Growth

We define profitability not only by financial success, but also by the ability to live well, spend time with our families, and stay meaningfully connected to the community. When we work with purpose and integrity, everyone (our clients, our team, and our community) gets to enjoy the benefits. As we grow, so do the futures and happiness of the people we represent. This way, everyone wins, and everyone we represent can look forward to a brighter tomorrow.

Our Mission

To provide personalized legal guidance in probate, estate planning, and trust administration, helping individuals and families protect what matters most. We combine professional excellence with genuine care, ensuring our clients understand their options, make informed decisions, and achieve outcomes that bring them clarity and peace of mind.

Our Vision

To be the most trusted name in probate, trust administration, and estate planning in Kern County and the surrounding region. We hope to be recognized for our compassion, diligence, and excellence. Through hard work and perseverance, we aim to make a lasting difference not only in our clients’ lives but also in the lives of the entire community.

Your Future

When you choose the Law Offices of Robert H. Brumfield, P.C., you’re investing in your own future. We believe in empowering our clients to make decisions that positively impact them and their loved ones. We hope to grow with our clients and their families, and represent our residents for generations to come.

What Are Some Lesser-Known Issues Related to Estate Planning?

While some people may not believe they can benefit from estate planning services, the truth is often more complex. For example, many people are unaware that divorce does not invalidate contracts signed during their marriage. Any contracts or agreements you entered into regarding your spouse must be individually invalidated. This includes wills. A common estate planning mistake is not updating a will to reflect a divorce or even the death of a spouse. Failure to address this concern can have serious unintended consequences. For example, if you divorce but do not update your will, your former spouse still has a legal right to any assets assigned to them in the document. This may be true even if you have remarried. If your former spouse also passes away but has surviving children, they may be able to lay a legal claim to your estate. 

Estate planning is also necessary for blended families. Many people do not formally adopt stepchildren. This can leave them vulnerable in the event you pass away. If you wish your stepchildren to have legal rights to your estate, a comprehensive estate plan is both vital and necessary.

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What Are Some Lesser-Known Issues Related to Estate Planning?

While some people may not believe they can benefit from estate planning services, the truth is often more complex. For example, many people are unaware that divorce does not invalidate contracts signed during their marriage. Any contracts or agreements you entered into regarding your spouse must be individually invalidated. This includes wills. A common estate planning mistake is not updating a will to reflect a divorce or even the death of a spouse. Failure to address this concern can have serious unintended consequences. For example, if you divorce but do not update your will, your former spouse still has a legal right to any assets assigned to them in the document. This may be true even if you have remarried. If your former spouse also passes away but has surviving children, they may be able to lay a legal claim to your estate.

Estate planning is also necessary for blended families. Many people do not formally adopt stepchildren. This can leave them vulnerable in the event you pass away. If you wish your stepchildren to have legal rights to your estate, a comprehensive estate plan is both vital and necessary.

Request Free Case Evaluation

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Stay informed with expert analysis and practical legal guidance.

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What Should I Do If I Need to Estate Plan?

Many people are uncomfortable thinking about estate planning because they believe it is somehow “jinxing” them. Other people feel that, if they plan for their later years, it is necessarily acknowledging that “the good times are over.” Nothing could be further from the truth. Estate planning is a form of insurance. No one buys car insurance thinking they will get into an accident. Similarly, estate planning does not mean something bad will happen. Estate planning is securing peace of mind for yourself today so you and your loved ones can enjoy tomorrow. Robert H. Brumfield can help you achieve this peace of mind.

Robert H. Brumfield and his caring, compassionate legal team have a mission: to provide security and safety to the people of Bakersfield and the wider Kern County area. He understands that estate planning can be a challenging consideration. He also knows that estate planning is one of the best things a person can do for their loved ones and for their own future peace of mind. If you or a loved one needs to develop a new estate plan or if you need to review an old plan to ensure it’s up-to-date, don’t hesitate to contact the Law Offices of Robert H. Brumfield, P.C., today at 661-384-6940 to schedule your free consultation.

Request Free Case Evaluation

Request Free Case Evaluation

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much is a Consultation?

Initial consultations are free of charge. During your no-obligation consult, we’ll review your financial status, your family history (such as marriages, divorces, and adoptions), and your wishes for your future. Then, we’ll outline an approach to crafting a custom-made estate plan to best suit you and your needs. No two estate plans are alike, and we pride ourselves on working closely with every client to craft an approach specifically tailored to their needs. We feel confident you’ll be satisfied with the results of your consultation and eager to proceed with fully crafting your own custom estate plan. Once you’re satisfied that we’re the right firm for you, we can determine how best to move forward.

I Can’t Afford Your Services; Can You Represent Me for Free?

The U.S. Constitution guarantees legal representation to anyone accused of a crime who is facing a criminal trial. This representation is provided by criminal defense attorneys known as public defenders. Public defenders are paid by the U.S. government to provide these services free of charge to clients unable to pay for their own defense. This provision ensures no one is sent to prison without receiving adequate representation. However, free legal services are not available for estate planning under most circumstances.

Do I Have to Change My Will if I Get Divorced?

Yes. Many people are under the mistaken impression that a divorce invalidates a will. This is not true. A will is a separate legal document from a marriage license. Anyone can list any person in their will as a beneficiary, regardless of whether they are married or related. Just because you got a divorce does not mean your former spouse is automatically disinherited. In fact, there have been many instances in which a divorced person got remarried, neglected to update their will, and accidentally left a considerable amount of assets to their former spouse. Depending on certain circumstances, failure to remove your former spouse from your will could also result in their children or even a new spouse inheriting your estate.

How Can a Prenuptial Agreement Protect My Estate?

Prenuptial agreements are a type of premarital contract. They establish what will happen to a couple’s assets in the event of a divorce. Many people dislike the idea of prenuptial agreements because they consider them “unromantic” or believe they “doom a relationship” to fail. In fact, a prenuptial agreement is like a form of marriage insurance. They ensure there are no surprises in the event of a divorce and provide a clear, concise, conflict-free roadmap for ending the union. Prenuptial agreements may be used to negate contracts entered into during a marriage. This includes wills and other estate plans. A carefully worded prenuptial agreement can ensure that any former spouses or family members are no longer included in your will or estate following a divorce.

Will My Family Automatically Inherit My Estate?

Many people believe they don’t need a will and that their family will simply inherit their estate after they pass away. Under many circumstances, this is not true. Dying without a will is called dying intestate. Dying intestate in California requires that a person’s estate enter probate. While every estate must go through probate, having a will greatly expedites the process. In many instances, probate with a will means a judge simply validates the will and the named executor. Probate without a will is a lengthy, time-consuming process. During this process, your heirs may have limited or even no access to your assets. If the court determines individuals other than your intended heirs have a legal right to some or all of your estate, it could mean your assets going to people you didn’t intend to receive them. This is why a will is vital for every Bakersfield resident.

Will My Family Have to Pay My Debts?

Under some circumstances, yes. Many people are under the mistaken belief that dying erases all debts and that their heirs can simply inherit their estate. In many cases, a deceased person’s heirs are responsible for paying their debts by liquidating their assets. Money owed due to lawsuits, unpaid income taxes, and more is eligible for collection after a person has passed away. Depending on the size of your estate and the amount of your debts, this could mean your intended heirs inherit little or nothing of what you intended for them to receive. Estate planning, including the strategic use of trusts, is an effective way to ensure your assets pass to your heirs instead of going to creditors.

How Can Trusts Protect My Assets?

Trusts are legal entities similar to businesses. They are used to hold assets and other resources for future intended owners. When you establish a trust, you will appoint a manager responsible for administering the trust according to your instructions. This person is known as a trustee. After establishing a trust, you can transfer specific assets into the trust’s ownership. Because you are no longer the legal owner of these assets, they may be transferred to their intended owners when you pass away. This is a simplified explanation of how trusts work, and there are multiple different types of trusts with different advantages and benefits. We can review different options with you and determine what types of trusts may be beneficial for your unique needs.

What is Strategic Gifting?

Strategic gifting is a legal strategy for ensuring your intended heirs receive what you wish for them to receive, while also potentially benefiting your own financial situation. By gifting certain assets to your heirs while you are still alive, you can prevent those assets from potential seizure after you are gone. In some circumstances, strategic gifting can lower your net worth and the value of your assets, which may be beneficial to you for Medicaid Planning or other estate concerns. Strategically lowering your asset value at the right time can be a vital way to ensure both you and your heirs are protected. Depending on the value of what you intend to gift, you may need to meet certain legal requirements. We can help you safely and legally gift assets to your intended heirs in a way that benefits everyone.