California Probate Lawyer
Helping Families with the Probate Process after the Loss of a Loved One
When someone passes away, their estate is processed and distributed through a legal process called probate. If there is a will, the executor of the estate should submit the will to the probate court. If the court finds the will is valid, the executor will have numerous duties to complete before the court closes the estate. If there is no will, the court will distribute the estate based on the intestacy laws in California. In either situation, probate can be a more challenging process than expected and complications may arise. Never hesitate to seek help from California probate attorney Narcis Brasov.
The Probate Process
As the executor of a will, you have many duties during probate, including:
- Taking inventory of the estate
- Paying all taxes and debts from the estate
- Identifying and notifying beneficiaries
- Distributing the estate according to the will or California law
- Defending the will against challenges by potential beneficiaries or heirs
All of these tasks are time-consuming, but executors have a fiduciary duty to the beneficiaries, which is the highest legal duty that exists. Therefore, they can face penalties if they make mistakes that harm the estate or beneficiaries. It can be beneficial to have the guidance and help of a skilled probate attorney.
Probate Litigation
In some situations, you may believe that a will – or certain provisions of a will – are not valid. You can contest a will for several reasons, including lack of mental capacity, undue influence, fraud, and more. These are complex legal claims, so you should discuss your options with a probate lawyer as soon as possible.
Contact a Probate Attorney in La Mirada, CA
For any help with the probate process or litigation, consult with Brasov Law. Call 213.948.2500 today or request a free consultation through the form below.
