The Law Offices Of
William A. Massarweh 
 
Estate Transition Professional®
 
Where Do We Go From Here? February 2009
 Greetings!
These are very turbulent times! 
 
The financial crisis which began in 2008 continues into 2009.  The world is changing at a very rapid pace with no seeming end in sight.  The fundamental question my client's want answered is "how does all this affect me and what should I do now?
 
As an advisor I do not have the luxory of wallowing in current events.  As the saying goes, "It is what it is."  The more important concern for me in counseling clients is where is the Market heading and how should we position client portfolios.
 
Todays' turbulent times require a clear plan of action.  A plan that will implement lessons learned from the past while incorporating a strategy to deal with today's turbulent times.
 
I have developed a precise plan of action and I would like to share it with you.  While I do expect a market bounce that will recover some of the past year's losses, I think more problems will surface and investors must position their portfolios to quickly take defensive postions. 
 
There is no crystal ball alerting us to future events!  However, with a clear plan we can be prepared to make adjustments as future events unfold.  I for one will not allow my clients to suffer through another disaster like this one.  I have a plan of action while remaining very vigilent in formulating sensible investment strategies.

 Breakfast With Bill

Il Fornaio Restaurant
Walnut Creek
8 AM - 10 AM
Every Wednesday 
 
 
 
In an effort to be more accessible in these turbulent times, and to allow time to sit with clients and explain in detail my investment strategy going forward, I will hold morning open sessions at Il Fornaio restaurant in Walnut Creek every Wednesday morning.  Drop in and feel free to bring a friend with you.
 
Allow me to buy you a great cup of coffee and a pastry and let's sit down and talk about what is on your mind.  I will explain my plan, there is no charge, and I buy!
Capital HillLegislation Waives Retirement Plan Withdrawals for 2009
The recently signed Employer Recovery Act of 2008 waives RMD's (required minimum distributions) from qualified retirement accounts in 2009 for taxpayers who are age 701/2 or older.
 
This means that for one year, 2009, taxpayers may forego withdrawals from their retiremnent accounts if they qualify.  The law does not waive RMD's for tax year 2008.
 
If you are unsure how this legislation affects you, schedule a time with me to discuss your options, or drop by on Wednesday morning and we can discuss this over coffee.
Retired Parents Continue Financial Help For Children
A growing number of family's are finding themselves squeezed in their ability to plan their retirement while giving needed financial aid to their children.  How much to give and from which investment account are critical issues?  How to position the portfolio either for income or growth or preservation are fundamental questions needing thorough analysis.
 
This is just one example of the difficulties people are experiencing in this economic downturn.  With portfolios reduced by as much as 40-60%, parents in retirement need sound planning if they feel compelled to give some financial help to an adult child who is having trouble making ends meet.
 
There is no one universal answer or solution for everyone.  In some cases, we will implement multiple strategies to achieve the client's objectives.
In This Issue
Breakfast With Bill
Legislation Waives Retirement Plan Withdrawals for 2009
Retired Parents Continue Financial Help For Children
 
 For Estate Planning and Financial information you can use visit our website at:

 
  

Next Issue:

 What are "Alternative Investments?"
 
Oil, How Will the Price Of Oil Affect The Economic Recovery? 

 
Upcoming Events

Breakfast With Bill

 
Il Fornaio Restaurant 
1430 Mt. Diablo Blvd
(Across from Nordstrom)
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
 
Every Wednesday
9 AM - 10 AM
closing headline
 Many thanks for your trust and confidence.   
Your estate is as important to us, as it is to you.
Our practice continues to grow by referrals from out clients. 
Send us your Topics of interest
 
Are you confused about a particular topic?  Have you recently read or heard things that have caused you to question what you thought you understood?
 
Send me an email at Help@eplanlaw.com and allow me to clarify the issue for you.  Are there topics you would like me to cover in this newsletter?  Drop me an email with you suggestions.
Contact Information
 
William A. Massarweh, Esq.
Estate Transition Professsional ®
Estate Planning Attorney
Investment Advisor
Real Estate Broker

2890 N. Main St, Suite 207
Walnut Creek, CA 94597
925-937-9866