Dealing with probate is often a new and confusing experience for most people, especially during the difficult time following the loss of a loved one. One requirement that sometimes takes heirs and executors by surprise is the need for a probate bond. If you’ve been named as the executor of an estate in California, understanding what a probate bond is and why it might be necessary can help you prepare ... [Read More]

When someone passes away, the division of their estate can often lead to conflict among heirs. It’s a delicate time filled with grief, but emotions can quickly escalate when disagreements over inheritance arise. In California, probate litigation becomes necessary when disputes can’t be resolved through communication or negotiation. Understanding how these disputes unfold and what options are available is important for heirs, executors, and anyone involved in the probate process. ... [Read More]

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]