If a person dies without an estate plan of any kind, or even if he or she had a will, estate assets must go through a process known as probate before they can be distributed. Probate is typically a frustrating, time-consuming and needlessly expensive process, particularly in California. It is also open to the public. At Newman Law Group we design customized estate plans that allow families to avoid the probate process entirely. However, we also assist families in the probating of their estate. We do so with compassion and understanding for the loss you have suffered, and strive to make the California probate process as stress-free and efficient as possible.
Perhaps you are wondering what is involved in probating an estate? While every situation is unique, a “typical” probate involves all of the following:
- Filing a petition with the probate court
- Notice to heirs named in the Will or, if there is no Will, to statutory heirs
- Petition to appoint an Executor (if there is a Will) or an Administrator
- Inventory and appraisal of all estate assets
- Payment of estate debt to creditors
- Sale of estate assets
- Payment of estate taxes
- Final distribution of assets to heirs
If you are facing the difficult prospect of probating an estate, our California probate lawyers can guide you through every step of the process. You are not alone. We are here to help.