Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Steps for Preparing an Estate Inventory for Probate
Preparing an estate inventory is one of the most crucial steps of the probate process. This is the job of the executor. An estate inventory is a list of a decedent’s assets. Often, preparing an estate inventory is not a small task. This process entails a number of steps. Fortunately, you don’t have to… Read More »
Warning Signs the Testator Chose the Wrong Executor
In probate law, an executor is the person in charge of settling a person’s estate after they die and carrying out their final wishes. To many, naming a spouse, adult child, or another close family member as the executor feels like the best thing to do. However, an executor does not have to be… Read More »
Common Problems That Arise During Probate
Often, after a person dies, the probate process must take place. Probate is the administration of a person’s estate. Some of the vital steps the personal representative takes during the probate process include gathering and managing estate assets, notifying beneficiaries and creditors about the probate process, evaluating estate assets, and paying debts and taxes…. Read More »
9 Essential Steps of the Probate Process in California
The probate process in California entails more than just distributing estate assets to beneficiaries or heirs. In this article, we discuss nine essential steps of the probate process in California. Read on! Appointment of a Personal Representative Before the probate process can begin, the court must appoint a personal representative. The personal representative is… Read More »
Receiving an Inheritance? Here Are Some Common Mistakes to Avoid, According to Experts
If you recently lost a loved one and are expecting to receive an inheritance towards the end of the probate process, you likely have mixed emotions. On one end, you are grieving the loss of your loved one. On the other end, you might be feeling some excitement because of this blessing you are… Read More »
Tips on Managing Assets During Probate
If you recently lost a loved one and found out that you were chosen to be the executor of their estate, you should prepare yourself for the responsibilities that lie ahead. Among the many things you will need to do as the executor of your loved one’s estate is to locate and manage all… Read More »
Who Is a Probate Judge and What Do They Do?
If you recently lost a loved one, you need to familiarize yourself with who a probate judge is and what they do. Your deceased loved one’s estate will most likely go through the probate process, so it is best that you understand the role of a probate judge before the process begins. Probate is… Read More »
Locating a Missing Beneficiary or Heir
If you are the executor or personal representative of a deceased person’s estate, one of your legal duties is to distribute the deceased’s assets to the beneficiaries or heirs. A beneficiary or heir is someone who is entitled to benefit from a decedent’s estate. However, the work of distributing assets to beneficiaries and heirs… Read More »
What Makes a Will Valid in California?
In California, creating a Will is one of the easiest ways for a person to ensure their loved ones are well taken care of after their passing. However, not all Wills are valid or enforceable in California. After someone dies, their Will is admitted to probate, and its validity is determined. Probate is the… Read More »
How Can a Prenuptial Agreement Affect Probate?
Several legal documents can play a crucial role in the probate process. One of those documents is a prenuptial or premarital agreement. Because of the prevalence of premarital agreements in the United States of America, especially among millennials, it is vital that we discuss how a prenup can affect probate. According to one particular… Read More »