Knowledgeable Legal Help For California Probate
If you have lost a family member and are facing the probate process, you may feel overwhelmed by the complex legal and financial issues involved. There are multiple probate options available in California. The correct probate process to be used in your situation depends on the value of the estate and other factors.
The Law Office of Alec Harshey is here to guide you through every step of the probate and estate administration process, helping you achieve your legal goals in the most favorable, cost-effective manner possible.
Our clients include heirs, beneficiaries, estate administrators, executors and other parties with an interest in a probate matter. Contact us at 877-824-8147 to arrange a consultation with an experienced Inland Empire probate lawyer.
Probate, Estate And Trust Administration In California
Probate is the court-supervised process for administering someone’s estate upon their death. If the person had a will, the probate process follows their expressed wishes. If the person died intestate (without a will), their property goes to heirs as California law says it must, following a strict hierarchy that prioritizes spouses, children and other relatives.
In either case, the court appoints an individual – known as the executor or personal representative – to settle the estate. If the decedent (the person who has died) had some or all of the assets in trust(s), the trust administrator (trustee) has specific responsibilities as well.
Understanding The Executor’s Responsibilities In California Probate
When someone passes away, the named executor or court-appointed administrator faces significant legal duties. These fiduciary responsibilities require careful attention to detail and understanding of California probate laws.
Our role is to advise and assist the personal representative or trustee with the probate proceedings and estate administration duties, which may include:
- Gathering and inventorying the decedent’s assets
- Notifying and paying creditors and settling debts
- Filing final tax returns and resolving tax obligations
- Selling property if necessary to satisfy debts
- Distributing the remainder of the estate to heirs and beneficiaries
- Managing disbursements from trusts and ongoing trust administration
- Meeting court accounting and reporting requirements
Probate and trust administration can be an overwhelming responsibility, especially if you are in charge of settling a large or unorganized estate. Our attorney, Alec Harshey, will provide a guide map and can step in to assist you as needed. If you live out of state (or at the other end of California), many tasks can be completed by phone, mail or email to reduce your travels. We get to know our clients so that we can be of better service.
We’re Here When Probate Problems Arise
The probate process does not always run smoothly. Even seemingly straightforward estates can encounter complications that delay the process and create stress for families. Disputes between beneficiaries can cause significant delays. Attorney Harshey is well-versed in the nuances of California probate laws and is a skilled advocate for clients engaged in will disputes, trust litigation and other contentious legal matters. He is prepared to protect your rights throughout the process.
It’s A Big Job. We Make It Easier.
Our estate planning and probate attorney offers compassionate guidance through a difficult time. If you are seeking representation for a probate court or trust-related matter in California, the Law Office of Alec Harshey is here to help. Call our Hemet office today at 877-824-8147 to arrange a consultation with our attorney. You can also reach us through our online form. We have Spanish-speaking staff available to assist you throughout the probate process.