Probate is the legal process of settling a person’s estate after they pass away. While many estates go through probate without issue, disputes can arise. These disagreements can delay the process and create tension among family members. Here are some of the most...
Probate & Trust Administration
How can you minimize estate taxes with careful planning?
Estate planning is an essential part of managing your assets and ensuring they are distributed according to your wishes. One important factor to consider when planning your estate is minimizing estate taxes. Understanding how estate taxes work and taking steps to...
What are the value limits for small estate probate in California?
California law offers a simplified probate process for small estates, allowing heirs to transfer assets more quickly and with fewer legal hurdles. This process reduces costs and time for families handling the affairs of a deceased loved one. Understanding the...
FAQs about the probate process
The California probate process can seem complicated and overwhelming, especially during a difficult time. If you have questions about how probate works, you're not alone. Understanding the basics of probate in California can help you feel more prepared and informed. ...
Can probate be avoided if the deceased had debts?
When a person dies, their estate often goes through probate, especially if they owe debts. Probate ensures creditors receive payment before beneficiaries get any assets. However, several ways exist to avoid probate, even if the deceased had debts. Understanding these...
Can a trustee sell trust property without approval in California?
Trustees have a responsibility to manage trust assets according to the terms outlined in the trust document. A trustee typically has control over trust property, which includes decisions related to selling assets. This process doesn't necessarily require approval from...
How can the deceased’s assets skip probate?
If you have no prior experience going through probate, it can be a struggle based on the deceased's estate and its details. This process typically involves countless tasks essential to administering assets, potentially taking months or even years to finish....
When can a trustee withhold trust assets?
As someone who is set to administer a trust for a family member, you should have a solid understanding of your obligations. Even if you feel that a trust beneficiary will act irresponsibly with trust assets, you may have no choice but to distribute the money to that...
What determines if a California estate goes through probate?
Determining whether a California estate must go through probate is helpful for anyone involved in estate planning or managing the affairs of a deceased loved one. Several factors influence whether probate is necessary. Understanding these determinants helps people...
What happens during probate?
When a loved one passes away, their estate often goes through a legal process known as probate. Probate is a court-supervised procedure that ensures that people distribute the dead person's assets according to their will or the state's laws if there is no will. This...