Experienced Lawyers In Probate And Estate Administration
Last updated on November 1, 2024
Estate administration can appear overwhelming, especially if you have been named executor under the deceased person’s will. It is difficult to manage new legal processes while dealing with the loss of a close family member or friend. We can offer guidance to make the entire process less painful and easier for you.
Your Guide To Estate Administration In Southern California
At The Probate House L.C., we have over three decades of experience managing estate administration in Orange County, California. As your partner, we can offer knowledgeable counsel during this difficult time. We are very experienced in assisting out-of-state administrators/executors.
Most importantly, we will respond to your questions and see that your legal matter is handled properly, efficiently and cost-effectively.
We understand the California Probate Code and the local court rules. Our estate administration lawyers will take the time to explain the processes clearly to you.
The Probate Process
While probating the estate is a common part of estate administration, California residents can sidestep the probate process altogether by planning ahead. In recent years, trusts have gained popularity as a means of avoiding probate.
Our attorneys are experienced in trusts and can help you or a family member establish a trust and designate beneficiaries during the estate planning or administration process. Other estate planning tools, such as life insurance, are not subject to probate either.
Although avoiding probate can save the estate and its heirs and beneficiaries considerable time and money, the administrator still has the responsibility of settling all the testator’s debts and ensuring that its remaining assets, such as bank accounts, real estate and personal property, are distributed according to the terms of the testator’s estate plan.
You owe it to your loved one’s memory to make sure this process goes as smoothly as possible, with minimal conflict between family members. As your estate administration attorneys, our advice and assistance in filling out and filing all necessary legal documents will help eliminate the risk of costly mistakes and will or trust challenges.
Arrange A Consultation To Learn More
We will help ease the stress of probate with experienced and compassionate legal counsel. Call our office in Torrance, California, to arrange a free initial consultation at 424-452-2375 or fill out our online contact form.
Understanding Estate Administration And How It Impacts You
How to go about leaving or claiming an inheritance usually comes with many questions. You may be wondering about how a living trust should relate to a will or how to go about the process of probate for a will that’s already in place.
At The Probate House L.C., our lawyers have decades of experience helping people address these questions. We can guide you to a workable solution tailored to your specific circumstances.
Call 424-452-2375 to get started. With our office in Torrance, our attorneys serve clients throughout Southern California.
What type of estate planning options avoid probate?
There are many ways that a person can plan to avoid probate. These options predominately feature the use of trusts and other legal options that name a beneficiary.
What role does a will play in establishing the terms for probate?
A will grants the decedent much more power over the handling of their estate. For example, in a will, you can specifically name someone to serve as an executor, also called a personal representative, to fulfill the terms of your will.
If you do not name anyone, the court will appoint an administrator. The court also appoints an administrator when someone dies intestate.
Where does a probate action have to be filed?
The county in which the decedent lived at the time of death is the county in which you must file a probate case. You are not required to file a supplemental probate in another county within the state, only if it is outside of California.
What is a probate conservatorship?
A probate conservatorship is when a judge appoints a conservator to manage the legal, financial and/or medical affairs of someone who cannot care for themselves. Typically, this occurs when someone has a severe mental or physical incapacity that inhibits their ability to make autonomous decisions.
If someone cannot manage their estate, for example, then a judge may appoint an estate conservator to pay the conservatee’s bills and manage their assets.
Do I need a probate attorney?
Probate law can be complex as there are several aspects to be taken care of during the administration of an estate. For instance, before the estate is administered, income taxes, inheritance taxes and all other estate taxes must be paid. A probate attorney can oversee the estate administration, assist the estate executor with the estate tax returns and ensure that probate proceedings move ahead in adherence with the law.
How much does a probate attorney cost?
The cost of hiring a probate lawyer can fluctuate depending on the intricacies of the case and the size of the estate. Some probate attorneys charge by the hour, while others may charge a flat fee. Depending on the complexity of your estate, it may be possible for legal assistants to do some of the clerical work, which can reduce costs significantly.
It is also important to note that the estate, not the estate executor is responsible for the legal fees. At The Probate House L.C., we guarantee to provide you with the best possible service for a fair rate. We’ll always be upfront about our fees, and we will try to reduce costs where possible.
How do I find the right probate attorney?
Choosing a probate lawyer is a crucial decision, and it should not be taken lightly. You should conduct as much research as possible before making any commitments. A reputable law firm will always be willing to answer any questions you have, such as how much they charge, how much experience they have and what exactly they can do for you.
Your probate lawyer should be able to explain the details of your case to you in an understandable way. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make. You should go with an attorney you feel you can trust to ensure that your estate is handled according to your wishes.
Learn More About How Probate May Affect You
This FAQ has answered only a small fraction of the questions we hear from our clients. You probably still have many more questions and concerns that you wish to bring to a lawyer.
Reach out to our experienced team at The Probate House L.C. to learn more about the probate process in California. To contact us, call 424-452-2375 or send us an email.