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Notes From The Field
April 2025
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The Importance of Estate Planning Why Many Americans Are Failing to Take Action
In the complex and unpredictable journey of life, one of the most important things an individual can do is plan for the future, especially when it comes to the distribution of their assets and the protection of their loved ones. Estate planning is the legal process that ensures your wishes are honored after your death, but sadly, millions of Americans fail to take action in creating a proper estate plan. At Field Law, we understand the importance of taking the necessary steps to secure your legacy, and we are here to shed light on the lack of action regarding estate planning and why it is essential to make it a priority. The Alarming Statistics: Why Haven’t Americans Taken Action? According to recent studies, approximately 60% of Americans do not have a will or estate plan in place. This statistic is particularly alarming when considering that everyone, regardless of age or financial status, will eventually face mortality. The reasons behind this lack of action are multifaceted, but four of the most common barriers include: 1. Lack of Awareness Many people are simply unaware of the importance of estate planning or believe they don’t need it until they reach a certain age or accumulate significant wealth. The reality is that estate planning is beneficial for individuals of all ages and financial circumstances. Whether you own a home, have children, or even just a few personal belongings, a well-structured estate plan will provide peace of mind for both you and your loved ones. Here at Field Law, we are committed to providing high-quality education around estate planning for our community to combat this exact problem. 2. Procrastination It’s easy to put off planning for something that seems far in the future. Too often, people get stuck in the belief that they have plenty of time to create an estate plan and they forget that life is unpredictable. Waiting until it’s too late can leave your family and heirs in a vulnerable position, possibly resulting in unnecessary legal battles, confusion, and financial strain. 3. Emotional Barriers The topic of death is often uncomfortable, and for many, the idea of planning for one’s own mortality can be emotionally overwhelming. We are familiar with the emotional toll this work
has on our clients, which is why we take the time to know them and understand what matters most to them. We believe estate planning allows you to take control of your future and ensures your wishes are honored. 4. Perceived Complexity or Cost Some individuals avoid estate planning because they perceive it as a complex and expensive process. While estate planning can be detailed, it doesn’t have to overwhelm you, especially when you work with a knowledgeable attorney. Thanks to our comprehensive approach to planning, we are able to provide peace of mind throughout this process and ensure your plan works when you need it most. The Risks of Failing to Create an Estate Plan Failing to take action in creating an estate plan can have serious consequences for you and your loved ones. Without a will or trust in place, the state will determine how your assets are distributed, often in ways that don’t align with your wishes. For example, if you have children, the court will appoint a guardian and they may end up in the foster care system for a time, which may not reflect your preferences. Furthermore, without an estate plan, your family may be forced to go through an extended and expensive probate process that can drain the resources meant for your beneficiaries. Another key risk is the potential for conflict among family members. Without clear instructions, disagreements may arise over asset distribution or health care decisions, leading to strained relationships and even costly litigation. Having a comprehensive estate plan in place provides clear guidance and can help mitigate these issues. How Field Law Can Help At Field Law, we understand that estate planning is a deeply personal and important decision. Our team is here to help you navigate the complexities of creating an estate plan tailored to your needs and the lifelong journey of ensuring that your plan serves your family in the ways you desire.
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BRAIN GAMES
SOLUTION
Celebrating Earth Day CARING FOR COMMUNITY AND NATURE
Earth Day, celebrated annually on April 22, is a global event that encourages environmental awareness and action. For many of us, it’s an opportunity to reflect on our relationship with the natural world and consider ways we can preserve its beauty for the next generation. Whether you’ve been involved in eco-friendly activities for decades or are just starting to consider ways to contribute, Earth Day serves as a great reminder of our responsibility to care for the Earth. In both Southern California and Southern Utah, we have the great fortune of being close to many beautiful places in nature with our abundant parks, coastlines, and desert landscapes. This year, consider one of the countless ways you can get involved and make a meaningful difference in your community. Ways to Get Involved 1. Volunteer for Local Clean-Up Events:
trails. In Southern California, groups like Heal the Bay and Surfrider Foundation organize regular coastal clean-ups, while in Southern Utah, the Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance holds events aimed at preserving the region’s natural beauty.
2. Support Sustainable Agriculture: If you enjoy gardening or farming,
efficient upgrades. Southern Utah has similar initiatives, with some areas offering curbside recycling services. 4. Join Eco-Friendly Groups: Many organizations provide opportunities for older adults to get involved in environmental advocacy. Consider joining AARP’s “Create the Good” initiative, which often highlights opportunities to get involved in sustainability efforts in both Southern California and Southern Utah. This Earth Day, remember that no action is too small. By getting involved, you not only help preserve the environment but also set a positive example for future generations.
consider supporting local farmers and community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs. The Santa Monica Farmers Market in Southern California offers fresh, organic produce. Meanwhile, the Red Acre, located in Cedar City, provides opportunities for locals to get involved in sustainable farming practices.
3. Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle:
Simple actions, like reducing energy consumption or recycling at home, can have a big impact. In Southern California, many cities, such as Los Angeles and San Diego, offer recycling programs and incentives for energy-
Many local organizations host Earth Day clean-ups at beaches, parks, and
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TAKE A BREAK ARBOR ARIES
BASEBALL CHERRIES CHOCOLATE DAISY DIAMOND FOOLS GARDEN KITE
A Deep Dive Into ‘Old Ironsides’ America’s Invincible Icon
RAINBOW SHOWERS
Some American institutions were built to last.
In 1794, a shipbuilder named Joshua Humphreys earned his status as an American hero by designing the first half-dozen warships used by the U.S. Navy. Amazingly, one of these ships, the USS Constitution, remains commissioned to this day after being used in some of our country’s most significant achievements at sea. The USS Constitution was first commissioned circa 1797 during the Quasi-War with France before being shipped off to North Africa during the U.S. conflict with the Barbary Pirates. However, the ship’s greatest fame came during the War of 1812, when it helped secure a victory against the British Navy. Known for its virtually impenetrable construction, the USS Constitution earned the nickname “Old Ironsides” after it was victorious against a British warship known as the HMS Guerriere. When the war-worn Old Ironsides seemed to be nearing the end of its structural life and would need to be decommissioned in 1830, a national campaign to save the ship kept it in service. By 1881, Old Ironsides finally got its well-earned retirement, and the ship was officially decommissioned. Was that the end of this iconic vessel’s storied history? Not by a long shot! In 1931, the Navy returned the ship to a different kind of active duty, where it remains to this day. These days, Old Ironsides is docked in the Charlestown Navy Yard in Boston, Massachusetts — next to a nonprofit museum dedicated to preserving its incomparable impact on American history. The warship and museum attract hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, and official USS Constitution crew members are on hand to deliver presentations on the frigate’s extraordinary past. More than 200 years after it first left Boston Harbor, Old Ironsides continues to stand (or, more accurately, float ) as a symbol of American ingenuity and our nation’s commitment to liberty and freedom for all.
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
Inspired by DietDoctor.com
Ingredients
• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on • Salt and pepper, to taste • 2 tbsp olive oil • 2 tbsp unsalted butter • 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth • 2 tbsp heavy cream • 1 lemon, zest and juice • 2 tbsp chopped parsley, for garnish
Directions 1. Preheat oven to 400 F and season chicken with salt and pepper. 2. Heat olive oil in an oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken skin-side down until crispy, about 5 minutes. Flip and cook 2 more minutes; remove from skillet and set aside. 3. Melt butter in skillet, then sauté garlic until fragrant. Add broth, cream, lemon juice, and zest. Simmer for 3 minutes. 4. Return chicken to skillet, spoon sauce over, and bake in oven for 15–20 minutes or until cooked through (165 F internal temperature). Garnish with parsley before serving.
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818-369-7900 435-216-4444 FieldLawPC.com
P.O. Box 8306 La Crescenta, CA 91224
PO Box 910760 St. George, UT 84791
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Why Americans Don’t Create an Estate Plan
Caring for Community and Nature to Celebrate Earth Day
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
A Naval Legend Lives On
When Your Diary Becomes Evidence
Dear Diary, Please Don’t Be Used Against Me in Court
Many of us have fond memories of writing in diaries or journals throughout our youth. We would share our thoughts and feelings in a book we would keep hidden from friends, family members, and others. It was our sanctuary where we could be ourselves without worrying about judgment or embarrassment. You may even remember the feeling of rage or hopelessness when you spotted your brother or sister holding your diary. Thankfully, there usually wasn’t anything too incriminating in our teenage diaries, and some of us have continued the practice well into adulthood. However, a recent news story proves we should be cautious about the information we share in our private journals. Last year, a Minnesota woman was arrested for auto theft. While investigating the incident and looking into Vanessa Guerra, a suspect in the case, a law
enforcement officer allegedly found her diary. He flipped through the pages, looking for any information that would catch his eye, when he stumbled upon an entry from Aug. 12, the same day a 2004 Ford Freestar van was stolen and resold at an auto salvage business. “Totally stole a car today! Something I never thought of doing,” Guerra allegedly wrote in her diary. Guerra was charged with receiving stolen property and theft, although she claims she didn’t know the vehicle was stolen. However, workers at the auto salvage business informed law enforcement they recognized Guerra as the seller of the stolen vehicle. Most people will probably not blab to others about crimes they have committed, especially if they are currently unsolved. This
case reminds us to be just as cautious about what we write in private journals. While your diary may be your safe place to share your innermost thoughts and feelings, your entries could come back to haunt you if you’re involved in a criminal case, especially if you blatantly admit to the crime.
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