Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in California

As long as it is clear as to whom is meant, it is not significant that a different name is used. If you often use James as your name, then that is one of your legal names. You are not limited to one legal name. The following are all legal names for Robert Doe Smith: Bob Smith, Rob Smith, Robert Smith, Robert D. Smith, Robert Doe Smith, etc.

I agree with Mr. Shers. California recognizes people using the name that they want, and as long as you are identifiable as a beneficiary from the trust, you don't have a problem.

For example, if you are listed as stepson James Smith, but go by Jimmy Smith, you are worrying about nothing. But if the trust lists the beneficiary as James Jones, and you are Jimmy Smith, you have a problem.