Recent Blog Posts
What Happens if a California Will Doesn’t Mention Some Assets?
When someone passes away and leaves behind a will, this legal document serves as a guide for how to distribute their assets. When there is a will, estate assets are usually divided according to the deceased’s wishes as outlined in the will. But what happens when a will does not name all of the… Read More »
How Executors Can Minimize Probate Delays in California
When someone passes away and leaves behind a will, their estate goes through a process called probate. This legal process involves validating the will, locating and managing the decedent’s assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing the remaining assets to beneficiaries or heirs. Executors, also known as personal representatives, are responsible for ensuring a… Read More »
What Does a Probate Court Actually Do?
Often, when someone passes away, their family faces a complex legal process known as probate. At the heart of the probate process is the probate court. This segment of the judicial system oversees the handling of decedents’ estates and the execution of wills (if applicable). But what exactly is the role of a probate… Read More »
What To Do if Probate Reveals Unexpected Debt or Claims in California
When someone passes away in California, their estate goes through probate. This process aims to ensure the decedent’s estate assets are divided according to their will (if they left one behind) and their debts are properly managed. However, as the executor or administrator, you might not know all the debts the deceased owed. Discovering… Read More »
What Happens if the Executor Fails To Distribute Assets in California?
After someone passes away in California, the person named in the will as executor is legally obligated to initiate the probate process, gather and inventory assets, pay debts and assets, and then divide the remaining assets among beneficiaries. While in many cases this is what happens, it is not unheard of for an executor… Read More »
What Happens in California When Multiple Beneficiaries Cannot Agree on How To Divide an Estate?
After someone passes away, emotions often run high, especially when there are multiple heirs and valuable property at stake. In California, it is not unusual for beneficiaries to clash over how to divide the decedent’s estate. So, what happens in California when multiple beneficiaries cannot agree on how to divide an estate? Legally, beneficiaries… Read More »
What Happens if You Don’t File a Probate in California?
In California, probate is a legal process that happens after someone passes away. This crucial process ensures the proper management and distribution of a deceased’s estate. But what happens if probate is not filed when it is required? If probate is not filed when it is necessary, it can result in significant legal and… Read More »
Understanding the California Probate Code: Key Sections You Should Know
If you are dealing with the loss of a loved one in California, you need to understand the laws that govern probate. In California, the rules for managing a deceased person’s estate are set out under the Probate Code. This complex and intricate set of laws governs everything from initiating probate to distributing the… Read More »
Can Daughters Serve as Personal Representatives in California?
When someone dies in California and leaves behind assets titled in their name, their estate may be required to go through probate. Probate is the process of managing a decedent’s assets, whether or not they left behind a will. A key figure in the probate process is the personal representative. A personal representative is… Read More »
What Is the California Small Estate Affidavit?
After someone passes away, managing their estate through probate can be a lengthy and emotional process. Fortunately, in California, the law provides a shortcut for small estates. This simplified alternative saves time and money compared to the full probate process. In California, qualifying small estates can be handled using what is referred to as… Read More »