Many of us will take part in the probate process for a loved one at some point in our lives. The process can be somewhat technical and complicated. Each state has its own specific laws that set out the steps of the probate process, including how to determine which creditors will be paid, and how remaining property will be distributed among the heirs. Paperwork must be completed and filed with the court by established deadlines, and the legal requirements must be followed to the letter. All … [Read more...] about How Long Does the Probate Process Take in California?
Probate
If I Die Intestate in Los Angeles, How will my Property be Distributed?
Dying intestate in Los Angeles means dying without a will. How your property is distributed in that situation, depends largely on which relatives survive you. Each state has its own set of laws regarding “intestate succession,” including California. In order to inherit in California, it is required that the person outlives you by 120 hours. So, for example, if you and your sister are involved in a car accident where your sister died only a couple of hours after you, her estate will not … [Read more...] about If I Die Intestate in Los Angeles, How will my Property be Distributed?
Is Probate Always Required?
Probate is the process by which property passes to your heirs after your death. It is not always required, however. In fact, it is not difficult to avoid the probate process altogether. There are several estate planning tools that can be used to ensure that your property passes to your heirs without having to go through the probate process. Some common tools used for this purpose include joint ownership of property or assets, revocable living trusts, gifts and pay-on-death accounts. You … [Read more...] about Is Probate Always Required?
