When a loved one passes away, inheriting assets is not as straightforward as it may seem. As heirs and beneficiaries, you have important responsibilities during the probate process, which is essential for legally settling the deceased's affairs. You will play a...
Compassionate And Competent
PROBATE & ESTATE ADMINISTRATION – Probate
What happens to pets in probate?
Pets are members of the family for many Americans. So, it is natural to wonder what happens to them when you are no longer around. Unfortunately, estate planning often overlooks a pet’s well-being, and probate law does not offer the most heartwarming solutions....
What probate information can beneficiaries request?
Beneficiaries have several rights during probate, including the right to request information about the estate and the probate process. However, this right is generally limited to certain information about the estate and its administration. What information can they...
Can you remove the executor of an estate?
In California, executors or personal representatives wield considerable power but must act within the confines of an estate plan and the law. Straying from these guidelines may cause serious problems for the estate and its heirs. If the executor of your loved one’s...
What happens when there is more than one will?
People often update their wills after a significant change occurs in their life, such as the birth of a child, marriage or onset of an illness. It is critical to destroy all copies of the old will after making updates, keeping only the most recent one on hand. Failing...
How does California administer small estates?
When estate assets go through the administration process, the total value of the estate plays a significant role in determining how the personal representative will administer the estate. In California, small estates may be eligible to go through a simplified probate...
Common reasons for probate delays
While probate typically takes about six to nine months, the process can take longer for other estates due to certain circumstances causing delays. If you are an estate’s executor, administrator, heir or beneficiary, understanding the common reasons behind these delays...
What happens if an estate includes out-of-state properties?
Having multiple properties across the country can be a promising investment. Nevertheless, this can create concerns about what will happen to these assets if the property owner dies. Which state will have control over them? Will it be the decedent’s state of...
Who receives payment first in the California probate process?
The probate process varies in each unique case. However, one of the things that remains consistent in the process is that the estate executor or administrator must pay all debts and obligations owed after successfully conducting an inventory and valuation of the...
Can you avoid probate with a will?
The short answer is no. Verifying the legitimacy of a will before your named executor can distribute the estate to the designated beneficiaries is one of the most vital aspects of the probate process. Therefore, even if you have a will, the executor will still need to...