Probate

 

 

When a person passes away in California whether with a will or without a will and has an estate that has a market value of more than $184,500, (in 2023) their estate will have to be probated by a court.  This is based on the value of the property that is considered part of the probate estate. Certain property, depending on how it is owned, whether there is a beneficiary designation upon death, or if it is included in a trust may not be a part of the probate estate. Therefore, probate may not be required in your specific situation. 

 

Probate in California does not require the assistance of an attorney.  However, navigating the probate code and dealing with what may seem to be an endless barrage of forms is not likely what you would choose to do with your time, especially when faced with the death of a loved one.  

 

You already have enough on your plate dealing with death notices, funeral arrangements, family, and dealing with your lost loved one's personal effects.  Having an attorney manage probate for you will give you a sense of peace in dealing with this process.

 

Allow me to help you determine if probate is even necessary and if so, to take the headache out of it for you.  Call me to discuss the situation and we can determine whether you need a formal probate or if some other abbreviated form may be available to you.