Sergio C. Prado

Greetings! I am Sergio, an Estate and Legacy Planning Attorney located in Ventura County, California. My legal journey is driven by a genuine desire to assist and support individuals and families in navigating the complexities of estate planning. I am a first generation Mexican-American, born and raised in Ventura County. Hablo Español.

Why Choose Me:

1. Compassion: I approach each case with genuine empathy, understanding the emotional aspects often associated with legal matters, particularly those involving legacies.

2. Patience: Estate planning requires careful consideration. I take the time to guide my clients through the intricacies of the legal process, ensuring they make informed decisions.

3. Community Commitment: Beyond my legal practice, I actively engage in the local community. This commitment reflects my belief in making a positive impact on the lives of those around me.

Choosing an attorney is a significant decision. I am here to provide expert guidance in estate and legacy planning. Feel free to reach out, and let's start securing your legacy together.

The Colleges of Law

J.D.

Honors: Deans List

Attorney

Precision Legal by Sergio C. Prado

Current

Mediator

Ventura Center for Dispute Settlement

MABA Scholarship for Excellence in Education and Community Involvement

Mexican American Bar Association

Excellence in Education and Community Involvement

US Senate

Excellence in Education and Community Involvement

US Congress

Excellence in Education and Community Involvement

Ventura County Board of Supervisors

Excellence in Education and Community Involvement

City of Oxnard

Excellence in Education and Community Involvement

City of Port Hueneme

State Bar of California  # 350719

Member

Current

California

State Bar of California

ID Number: 350719

Since 2023

Central District of California, Federal Court

Since 2024

• Free Consultation
• Credit Cards Accepted
  Zelle Venmo

• Wills and Living Trusts

Q. Can I add a family member to a deed under a joint ownership, then move my portion of the ownership into a living trust?

January 26, 2024

A: If you're the sole property owner, adding someone to your California property is feasible, but it's essential to be mindful of potential impacts on property taxes. It's recommended to consult with your accountant to understand the ramifications of transferring real estate during your lifetime. Opting for a trust at death might be more advisable due to potential effects on capital gains taxes associated with lifetime transfers.

Various taxes are involved in such transactions, such as property documentary transfer taxes, affordable housing-related taxes, capital gains taxes, and property taxes. For those new to navigating these tax intricacies, it's beneficial to analyze each tax separately to avoid confusion. Seek guidance from your CPA or tax professional for a more streamlined process.

In California, you can include a family member on a deed through joint ownership and later transfer your portion to a living trust. This typically involves using a grant deed or quitclaim deed, ensuring it includes all necessary legal elements, and recording it with the county recorder's office.

After establishing joint ownership, transferring your interest to a living trust can be achieved by executing a new deed. Consider the tax implications and how these transfers impact your estate plan, as well as the rights and responsibilities related to the property for both parties.

Before proceeding, it's advisable to seek legal advice to ensure compliance with legal requirements, understand the specifics of your situation, and consider all potential implications of these transfers. ... Read More

Q. My parents had an a and b trust my mom died and my father made a new trust without honoring my mothers wishes

January 26, 2024

A: Certainly, Sergio. Here's a revised version:

The accurate response hinges on the precise language outlined in the trust documents.

In our family, both sets of parents, including my in-laws, as well as my wife's and my revocable trusts, were structured identically. The irrevocable status only takes effect upon the demise of **both** original granting trustees.

Following the passing of one original trustee, the surviving trustee maintains full authority to make modifications to the trust as they deem appropriate.

However, in your parents' situation, only a thorough examination of the original trust by a qualified attorney can provide a definitive answer.

Q. Can I file a suit against a company after I receive the Right to Sue? Only have 90 days. Can I file it myself or?????

December 27, 2023

A: When you receive the Right to Sue notice, it indicates that you have the green light to file a lawsuit against the company within the specified timeframe, typically 90 days. You can file the suit yourself, but considering the legal complexities involved, it's advisable to consult with an attorney.

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