Stepparent and stepchild relationships can significantly complicate probate in California. If you’re a stepparent who wants to ensure all your children — including stepchildren — are included in your estate, or a stepchild who’s been excluded from a beloved stepparent’s will, it’s important to speak with a probate lawyer in Torrance, CA about your legal […]

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Probate is the legal process whereby the courts take care of a deceased person’s assets. The court’s job is to validate the will (if there is one) so there’s confidence that the deceased’s wishes are known. If there is no will, then the court follows the law to prioritize the deceased’s spouse and children and […]

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In an ideal situation, after a person’s death, their estate moves smoothly through the California probate court, and all the assets are distributed quickly. Sometimes, probate becomes contested, and when that happens, there can be enormous delays. Talk with a probate attorney no matter where you are in this process. We can help with your […]

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The time after losing a loved one can be unimaginably difficult for you and your family. Stressful is an understatement. Everyone processes this loss differently, so it is not hard to see why many families may argue or lash out, especially as they go through the probate process.  There may be no absolute way to […]

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When probate involves cherished family heirlooms, it is easy for emotions to run high. These items often hold significant sentimental value. Understanding what happens to them during probate is crucial for families who wish to preserve their heritage and for personal representatives navigating the challenges of probate. What happens for heirlooms if there is a […]

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Executors and personal representatives have many responsibilities and a long list of things to do. You must begin the probate process not long after the passing of a loved one. However, before you officially initiate the process, it will help immensely to prepare yourself. 3 tips to get ready for probate Even if your loved […]

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Organizational skills are a requirement in probate. There are many rules to follow and a lot of paperwork to complete throughout this process. As the California Probate Code indicates, personal representatives must maintain a high level of diligence and care to not only administer their loved one’s estate but also uphold their fiduciary duties. Staying organized can […]

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What could make the probate of a loved one’s estate even more stressful? Managing the debt that a loved one left behind. Debt by it’s nature is stressful and managing debt that is not your own can be overwhelming and challenging. Here are some key tips to help you approach these debts and navigate creditors. […]

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Formal probate is not always necessary. Perhaps your loved one took steps to avoid probate, making use of trusts or other estate planning tools. Even if they did not, it still may not be a requirement to go through formal probate. In California, a “small estate” can go through a simpler form of probate and […]

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According to the Holmes-Rahe Life Change Index Scale, the death of a spouse and that of a close family member fall into the top five most stressful events a person could experience. Though, you may not even notice the stress at first, as the grief may be overwhelming. Amid all of this, how are you […]

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