Dealing with the death of a loved one is a difficult and challenging time. Facing possible probate court and the legal proceedings that surround it on top of your grief can only cause more headaches. During this time, you deserve the compassion and knowledge of an experienced Fullerton probate lawyer who can come alongside you and your family and help you navigate the complex legalities of probate court. In these moments, it’s easy to feel alone. But you're not.

There is nothing that can truly prepare you for the death of a loved one. Additionally, the legal matters that must be attended to following this death can bring even more stress and feelings of uncertainty. Working with Sweeney Probate Law can ensure that the handling of your loved one’s estate is done in a proper manner. When you secure the assistance of a trusted probate lawyer, you can face the process with legal knowledge and confidence.

What Is Probate in California?

In the state of California, probate refers to the process that an individual’s estate must go through after their passing before assets and property can be distributed between heirs and beneficiaries. This legal process ensures that any existing will is valid and that the executor or administrator of the estate is officially named. Through this process, the court also makes sure that all property or assets of the estate are properly distributed to the appropriate parties named in the will.

Through a series of specific steps, probate will declare the deceased person as legally dead, gather into a collection all of the estate’s assets, debts, and property, make a determination on the value of these assets, pay off any debt or taxes remaining in the estate, and distribute the leftover assets to the beneficiaries that have been named in the will and are entitled to receive them. Additionally, the following actions should be attended to during the probate process:

• Validation of the Will: The authenticity of the estate’s will is determined in this step. Any claims against the legality or validity of the will can be handled here via additional litigation hearings.
• Validation of Witnesses: If any party brings forward a question regarding the validity of any witnesses to the will, these witnesses may be brought in to testify.
• Filing of Estate Taxes: If any taxes are owed by the estate, the required forms should be filled out and filed by an estate representative and paid.
• Asset Appraisal and Debt Payment: All the assets contained within the estate should be appraised so that their value can be determined. This part of the process is essential so that any creditors and other interested parties are paid as necessary before any other distributions are made.
• Identifying Beneficiaries: The court, along with the estate’s executor, must work to identify the beneficiaries of the estate and determine their inheritance in accordance with the deceased individual’s will.
• Distributing Assets to Beneficiaries: Once the debts and taxes of the estate have been paid, the remaining assets need to be distributed amongst the named beneficiaries in accordance with the wishes of the standing will.
• Attending to Necessary Guardianship or Conservatorship: If any minor person or legally dependent individual has been left alone after the passing of the estate’s owner, a legal process must begin to determine who will assume the care and custody of these individuals.

Legal Probate Support in Fullerton, CA

Hiring an experienced probate lawyer can make all the difference when it comes to the proper handling of your loved one’s estate. I, William Sweeney, at Sweeney Probate Law, understand the stress and anxiety that can be wrapped up in these matters, not to mention the grief that follows the loss of a loved one. Because of this, I strive to offer dedicated and compassionate services and can help make this process run as smoothly as possible during this difficult and tense time.

Sweeney Probate Law is here to provide you with legal guidance, counsel, and representation of your loved one’s wishes during the probate process. We can work together toward ensuring the process runs quickly and efficiently so you can move through your grief as a family. For over four decades, I have worked with clients needing legal representation following the death of a loved one and used my experience in probate law to assist families.

Do I Need a Lawyer for Probate in California?

While a lawyer is not required to go through the probate process in California, the legal proceedings surrounding probate court can be complex and confusing for those not acquainted with the applicable laws. In general, a probate lawyer in California can help to:

• Ensure that all court dates and hearings are attended by the necessary parties.
• File all necessary petitions and court paperwork in the proper manner and on time.
• Explain the rights and legal responsibilities of all individuals involved in the estate, such as trustors, executors, and administrators.
• Act as a representative for the wishes of your deceased loved one or represent you during any possible probate litigation.
• Act as a legal liaison between you and other individuals involved in the probate case.
• Assist in determining the value of the estate’s assets so that distribution can be done accordingly.
• Assist in determining the validity of any wills or trusts and help with trust management.

Contact an Experienced Fullerton Probate Lawyer Today

Sweeney Probate Law is passionate and knowledgeable about California probate code and can work hard to ensure your loved one’s wishes are adhered to by the courts and other individuals involved. My first priority is saving you the headache and stress of having to handle these affairs on your own while also dealing with the grief suffered from your recent loss.

Call the office of Sweeney Probate Law today to learn more about how I can help you ensure that your loved one’s estate is distributed in accordance with their final wishes. I want to be here for you - to answer any questions you might have regarding California probate, determine the options available to you, and help you chart a course for your future and the future of your loved one’s legacy.