When a loved one passes away, confronting the intricacies of the legal system is likely the last thing on your mind. Unfortunately, probate is a necessary step in settling their estate. How long will this process take, and can you do it yourself? It is impossible to...
Probate
How probate affects your family relationships
When a person dies, their estate goes through a legal process called probate. While this process is necessary, it can often be a source of stress and tension among family members. Emotions run high after losing a loved one, and the added complexity of legal and...
3 ways debt can impact probate proceedings
Debt is part of the modern economy. Most young adults can't obtain a college degree without taking on debt. Many households rely on revolving lines of credit to cover unexpected expenses. Individuals who need emergency medical care may end up with staggering levels of...
How does probate handle art collections?
How does probate handle art collections? When a loved one passes away, their cherished art collection becomes more than just beautiful pieces on the wall. It transforms into a complex asset that must be carefully managed during the probate process. From famous...
Skipping probate with California’s Small Estate Affidavit
Dealing with a loved one's estate can be overwhelming. However, in California, some estates can bypass the lengthy probate process. Let us explore how the Small Estate Affidavit works and when you can use it. What is a Small Estate Affidavit? A Small Estate Affidavit...
Valuing assets for probate: Acquisition value or value at death?
When a loved one passes away, the process of settling their estate begins, which involves determining the value of each asset and the estate’s total value. This valuation is not only crucial for fair distribution among heirs but also for meeting legal requirements....
What are the differences between a secured and unsecured creditor?
When a loved one passes away, their estate enters a process known as probate. This legal procedure involves settling debts and distributing assets to beneficiaries. In probate, creditors fall into two main categories: secured and unsecured. The prioritization of debts...
3 types of taxes that may be due during estate administration
Estate administration and probate court proceedings in California can take a year or longer to complete. During that time, the personal representative of the estate has to manage resources, attend court hearings and fulfill various other responsibilities. One of the...
Common causes of probate delays
When a loved one dies, their estate may undergo a legal process called probate. It is often a complex and time-consuming process that involves multiple steps. The first step is validating the deceased person's will. The next step is identifying and appraising their...
Avoid probate with a living trust
As you start planning your estate, you may encounter significant concerns regarding the probate process. This court-supervised procedure, which validates your will and distributes your assets to the right people after you are gone, can be expensive, public, and...