Small estates do not need to be probated in California. That means that if you can decrease the total value of your property to under $150,000, you can avoid probate in California altogether.

This process is often referred to as “Summary Probate.” The executor of the estate simply has to file an affidavit...

There are a number of reasons to create a will not the least of which are to protect your assets and provide for your loved ones. Nonetheless, having a will does not necessarily mean your wishes will be carried out. In fact, an estate can be exposed to a will contest if a dispute...

When someone dies, someone has to administer his or her estate, regardless of whether he or she has a will in place or not. This person will ensure that any final debts and liabilities are paid and that beneficiaries receive what they should based on either the decedent’s will or intestate laws.

Technically...

When you create a will, you name an executor to take care of your estate after your pass. This person will be responsible for not only carrying out your wishes as you have laid them out in your will, but he or she is also responsible for settling your debts as well. The...

The most basic estate planning tool is a will that establishes how an individual's property will be distributed and names beneficiaries to receive those assets. Unfortunately, there are circumstances when disputes arise among surviving family members that can lead to a will contest. This is a court proceeding in which the validity...

What happens during the probate process in California?

The death of a loved one is always traumatic and will require a considerable amount of time to process.  In the midst of your grief, you will likely also find yourself struggling to untangle the financial issues that often exist after a death.  It is...

When a person dies with a will in place, an executor is named as the responsible individual for winding down the decedent's affairs. In situations in which a will has not been prepared, the probate court will appoint an administrator. Whether you have been named as an executor or administrator, the role comes...

You want your money and property should go to your loved ones when you die, not to the courts, lawyers, or the government. Unfortunately, unless you’ve taken proper estate planning, procedures, your heirs could lose a sizable portion of their...

“I just need a simple will.”  It’s a phrase estate planning attorneys hear practically every other day.   From the client’s perspective, there’s no reason to do anything complicated, especially if it might lead to higher legal fees.  Unfortunately, what may...