Generally, estates have to go through probate proceedings, exposing involved parties to the usual lengthy and costly court processes. However, transferring estate assets without going through formal probate proceedings is also possible. Navigating simplified...
Probate
What happens if the estate administrator cannot fulfill their duties?
When we lose a loved one, we focus our energy on mourning their death. During the grieving process, we usually cannot think straight enough to perform our normal routine, let alone handle complex tasks, such as administering our loved one’s estate. Fortunately,...
Is it possible to avoid the probate process?
The timeline of an estate’s probate administration varies on the circumstances surrounding the estate. Probate can finish as quickly as four months for simple estates, while others may take more than a year due to their complexity. Since probate is a lengthy and...
Do small estates undergo probate?
Whichever state you live in, probate can be extensive and complex. It can take months or even years to reach the end of the process. The procedure can be incredibly draining to a decedent’s surviving family members, who are still mourning the loss of their loved one....
How do you find a reliable attorney during probate?
Seeking legal guidance while grieving may seem overwhelming. Losing a loved one can cause depression and put you in a state of shock, especially if the death of the loved one is sudden. This makes a reliable support system vital. The grief might push you to isolate...
What are the qualities of an ideal estate representative?
Dividing a loved one's estate after they pass can be long and tedious. If a will indicates their wishes, the surviving family members would better know what to do next. However, that is not always the case. Sometimes, the deceased has no will, and the family must let...
When does an estate go through probate?
While not every estate in California will go through the complicated probate process, there are instances where it is required. Even when a there is a will. Probate is expensive and it can be extremely time consuming, not to mention you will have less control over the...
What assets are exempt from probate in California?
It could be stressful for a family to go through the legal process of probate when they are still grieving the loss of their loved one. However, it is essential to go through the decedent’s assets and properties for proper distribution. Fortunately, some assets are...
When does an estate go to probate court?
Inheriting assets seems straightforward, but it can be more complicated than you think. When a person dies, assets with named beneficiaries and co-owners can go through a simplified process. However, some assets have no exact recipients, leaving decisions about estate...
Is my last will and testament adequate?
While it is true the last will and testament is a fine way to divide our assets among those we leave behind, it also tends to leave a lot of legal essentials out. If that happens, then often the beneficiaries need to undergo probate in court to validate the will....