When someone passes away, their estate is often filled with cherished memories, tangible legacies, and sentimental belongings. Family heirlooms and personal property—like jewelry, photographs, furniture, and other keepsakes—can be some of the most meaningful and complicated items to address during probate. In California, dealing with these belongings requires careful planning, organization, and sometimes, an added layer of diplomacy to manage potential disputes among heirs. Probate laws help determine how a ... [Read More]

When someone passes away, their assets must be transferred to the rightful heirs or beneficiaries. This process often involves probate, a legal procedure that ensures that the decedent’s debts are settled and their estate is distributed according to the will or state law if no will exists. One of the more complex aspects of probate is handling real estate properties. Whether the decedent owned a family home, rental properties, or ... [Read More]

When someone passes away and leaves behind assets, the probate process begins to distribute those assets according to the decedent’s wishes or, if there is no will, according to California’s laws of intestate succession. One important step in the probate process is property appraisal. Accurate appraisals are essential to determine the value of the estate’s assets, which impacts how the estate is taxed, divided among heirs, and administered. In California, ... [Read More]

Probate is a legal process that occurs after someone passes away, ensuring that their debts are paid and assets are distributed according to their will or California law if there is no will. During probate, a number of individuals and professionals play important roles, and one of the key figures in the process is the probate referee. In California, a probate referee is responsible for appraising the assets of a ... [Read More]

Probating an estate in California can be a complicated and emotional process. When a loved one passes away, their estate must go through probate, a legal procedure that validates their will, settles debts, and distributes assets. For many, one of the first questions that arises is whether to hire a probate attorney or attempt to handle the process alone. This decision depends on several factors, including the size and complexity ... [Read More]

In California, joint tenancy is a popular method of holding property, especially among married couples or co-owners. The concept is simple: when one of the joint tenants passes away, the surviving tenant automatically inherits the deceased tenant’s share of the property, bypassing the probate process. However, California’s probate laws affect joint tenancy assets in specific ways, and understanding these rules can help avoid complications down the road. This post will ... [Read More]

Being an executor of an estate is a significant responsibility, and one of the most complex aspects is finding all the assets the deceased owned. Sometimes, not everything is apparent or easily located. In California, discovering hidden or overlooked assets can mean the difference between a smooth probate process and one full of complications. Here’s a straightforward guide to understanding how to locate and secure these assets. Getting Started with ... [Read More]

When a loved one passes away in California, their estate may have to go through probate, a legal process for distributing assets. But what happens when heirs live abroad or are non-citizens? The situation can quickly become complex. Probate for non-citizens brings its own set of challenges, from communication hurdles to tax implications and foreign legal considerations. Here’s a practical guide for understanding these issues and what foreign heirs need ... [Read More]

Being named as the executor of someone’s estate is both an honor and a significant responsibility. In California, executors have a range of duties, one of the most crucial being to protect and manage the estate’s assets throughout the probate process. This involves a careful approach to ensure the assets are preserved, distributed correctly, and handled according to the wishes of the deceased. Understanding the Role of an Executor Executors ... [Read More]

When a loved one passes away, leaving behind an inheritance intended for a minor, the process can be more complex than usual. California law has several provisions in place to protect the inheritance rights of minors. These rules ensure that the assets they are entitled to are properly managed until they reach adulthood. If you are involved in a probate case where a minor stands to inherit, understanding how California ... [Read More]