Recent Blog Posts
What To Do if You Think a Will Is Invalid in California
After someone passes away, their will is typically submitted to probate, a legal process meant to ensure that the decedent’s (the person who has passed away) wishes are carried out. However, sometimes, surviving family members or other interested parties may question the validity of the deceased’s will. In California, like in other states, the… Read More »
Common Conflicts Between Joint Executors
When someone passes away, the executor is responsible for administering their estate. The duties of an executor include identifying and collecting the decedent’s assets, appraising estate assets, determining any debts and taxes, paying debts and taxes, and distributing property to beneficiaries according to the will. Sometimes, a testator (the person who made the will)… Read More »
When Hiring an Attorney for Probate Is a Good Idea
Probate is a process that involves settling a deceased person’s estate and distributing assets to beneficiaries or heirs. Probate ensures a decedent’s assets are identified and correctly valued, debts are settled, and beneficiaries or heirs receive assets per the decedent’s wishes or the state’s intestate succession laws. In California, hiring an attorney for probate… Read More »
Receiving an Inheritance? Here Are Some Common Mistakes To Avoid, According to Experts
The period after the death of a loved one can be a confusing time, especially when an inheritance is involved. It is usually a period of mixed emotions as a person deals with their loved one’s loss and an inheritance. You may be grieving the loss of your loved one while at the same… Read More »
How Are Debts Paid After Someone Dies in California?
Very few people make it through life without taking on any debt. Some people manage to pay off their debts before they die, whereas others are unable to clear their debts before their passing. Most people leave behind credit card debts, mortgages, auto loans, medical bills, student loans, and other types of debts. When… Read More »
5 Key Stages of Probate
Probate is a legal process that takes place after someone dies. This process ensures that the decedent’s assets are distributed in accordance with their Will or the state’s intestate succession laws if there is no Will. Probate can be a complex process involving several stages. It is vital to understand the stages of the… Read More »
What a First-Time Executor Should Know
There might come a time when you may be asked to serve as the executor of a loved one’s estate. Being named the executor of an estate can be a great honor. It can be an opportunity for you to help a loved one who has been there for you in times of need…. Read More »
Deadlines and Timelines in California Probate
Probate is a court-supervised process through which a deceased person’s estate is administered and distributed. The probate process involves several steps, including gathering and inventorying estate assets, settling debts, paying taxes, and distributing assets to heirs and beneficiaries. Probate proceedings can be complex. This process involves various legal deadlines and timelines. Adhering to these… Read More »
A Guide to How Personal Representatives Are Paid in a California Probate
Navigating probate can be complex, especially when it comes to the financial aspects. A common question we get as probate attorneys is, “How are personal representatives paid during probate?” In California, the fees paid to personal representatives are governed by specific statutes and regulations. This article discusses how personal representatives are compensated during the… Read More »
Family Allowance in California Probate
It is common for a family member to be the primary or sole breadwinner in a household. However, if this person passes away, the surviving family members may struggle to cater to their daily needs. Fortunately, California probate law provides a solution to this issue. A family allowance is one of the rights granted… Read More »
