Probate
Probate is the legal process by which the court authorizes the distribution of assets to a deceased person’s heirs. It involves ascertaining the validity of wills and other documentation to ensure that a person’s estate is divided according to his or her wishes. If there is no will or other documentation involved, the probate process requires the assets to be distributed pursuant to California law. Probate also involves the paying of debts, the inventory and appraisal of the person’s assets, and ensuring that retirement and life insurance benefits are paid out to the heirs. An executor will need to be appointed to oversee the process and submit the necessary documentation to the court.
The probate process can be tedious, confusing, and stressful. An executor has tremendous responsibility, and if the probate process is not done correctly, there may be a delay in the distribution of assets as well as possible litigation. In our probate practice, our objective is to simplify and expedite the process by assisting the executor in handling all administration matters and preparing the paperwork for a successful probate.
Unlike other areas of law, the attorney fees are paid through the estate.