ESTATE ADMINISTRATION

Conflicts between estate planning documents are more common than many people realize, as plan documentation is frequently created or updated at different times. For example, in California, questions and conflicts often arise about what happens if a will says one thing...

It’s only natural to be anxious to have probate close and collect your inheritance. Nobody wants to seem over-eager to benefit from a loved one’s death – but having necessary funds tied up in probate can cause families true financial hardships. Probate is not a quick...

Most executors do a decent enough job; some drag their feet and a few turn the entire process into a disaster. If you are staring at missed deadlines, suspicious accountings or an executor who seems more interested in protecting themselves than honoring the estate,...

Losing a loved one is always difficult, even if the death was expected. However, the process of settling the deceased’s estate can become exceptionally complicated when you can’t find their will. It’s not an uncommon problem after a loved one’s death for families to...

For most people, their family home is one thing that holds the most sentimental value in their lives. That’s why, for most siblings, inheriting a family home can be a source of conflict. Dividing something that holds childhood memories can be an emotional endeavor...

When you designate a trustee for your trust, you expect that they will endeavor to manage the trust’s assets with integrity and in accordance with the terms of the trust. While this is the case in most instances, not all trustees carry out their mandate as required,...

As the beneficiary of an estate, you depend on the competence of the estate's executor (personal representative). If they fail to perform their duties as required, you and other interested parties may incur losses. Here is what to know about this matter: When an...

There can be valid reasons to contest a will here in the probate courts in California. In fact, wills can be contested by not just the children of the decedent and other beneficiaries, but by others who are considered “interested parties.” That term is a bit of a...

If a loved one dies before you’ve had a chance to discuss their estate plan, you may be relieved to find a will somewhere in their home or other property. But what the family finds another one – and maybe even a third? They may have various dates – or no dates. One or...