Ask the Lawyer: Is asset protection improper?

Q: It has dawned on me it might not be a bad idea to take steps to protect our assets – to make them unavailable to others who might sue or make claim. Is there anything improper about doing so?
-D.R., Tustin
Ron Sokol
A: Legitimate asset protection is legal, and may well be recommended in any given situation. Note, however, use of the word “legitimate.” Steps such as putting assets into a trust, a private retirement account, or a limited liability company, may be prudent. Ther