The probate process can be a lengthy and expensive affair for certain estates, especially after they have reached a specific scope and level of complexity. But it is not always necessary, and there are ways to shorten and even avoid probate. Careful estate planning tools can serve as an alternative option to California probate and
read more
Probate is an important part of the estate planning process, as it usually sets the timeframe from your death to the total dissolution and distribution of your estate. However, contrary to popular belief, probate does not always last forever. The probate proceedings process can be truncated, sped through, or even skipped depending on the circumstances,
read more
Death can come suddenly and unexpectedly, and it is rare to be prepared for it. As a matter of fact, nearly half of all Americans over the age of 55 do not have a will, and only 18 percent of Americans above age 55 have an established estate plan (with more than just a will).
read more
The thing to remember about probate is that, in a best-case scenario, it is boring. And that is a good thing. The probate estate process is not overly complex in most cases, and it does not need to be. If you are in charge of overseeing the probate estate process, it helps to have a
read more
For many families, probate is not ideal. It’s hard enough dealing with a loved one’s loss, but to then be inundated with a long and arduous legal process to eventually see their property be rightfully distributed can be frustrating, difficult, and expensive. While the California probate process isn’t as bad as it may be in
read more
Buying a property in probate can help you get a great deal that you wouldn’t find on the regular market. However, to take advantage of this opportunity, you must be prepared to wait, wait some more, and be prepared for the unexpected at any moment. There are several ways in which the process of buying
read more
When real estate is part of a decedent’s assets, heirs and beneficiaries often choose to sell the home and split the proceeds. However, realtors involved in the buying or selling of homes in probate should know the potential risks involved with property in probate. 1. Negotiations Include More Parties Negotiating the price of a probate
read more
In most cases, the home is the greatest and most valuable single asset of any given estate. While some can afford to own multiple homes or perhaps even possess assets with greater value than the average home, most families prize their family house as the financial crown jewel of the house’s owner – and as
read more
Unless an individual dies with a living trust or meets other specific criteria, their estate must go through probate after they pass away. The California probate process ensures that all of the estate’s debts are paid and that the assets are distributed to the proper beneficiaries and heirs. From start to finish, this process typically
read more
It happens all too often – someone passes away, and everything they own must now be passed down to the family. But who determines who gets what, and why? What if both of your adult children want custody over the family dog? Who gets the car? To whom goes the house? With or without a
read more