Manhattan Beach Estate Litigation Lawyer

Losing a loved one is never easy. The grief caused by the death of a family member can only increase when disputes arise during the probate process of their estate or administration of their trust. In California, every estate over a certain monetary amount must pass through probate, or the legal process which officially settles the affairs of that estate. When conflicts arise between beneficiaries of the estate, this process only grows more complicated and a Manhattan Beach estate litigation lawyer can help.

Defining an Estate in California

In the state of California, an individual’s “estate” is the accumulation of all the assets they have built over their lifetime. This can include all their personal belongings, properties, and debts that were owned or owed by them at the time of their death. An estate can be built up of both tangible and intangible assets. Some of these assets can include the following:

• Vehicles
• Bank accounts
• Real estate holdings
• Investments and stocks
• Businesses
• Retirement savings accounts
• Jewelry or other valuables or collections

When an individual dies in the state of California, there are laws that pertain to how their estate will be probated and who will inherit their assets. If the deceased individual established a valid will before their passing, their assets will be distributed according to the wishes laid out in that will. However, if they died without a will, the intestate laws of California will dictate how the estate is settled. This is one of the various reasons why having an estate plan is important.

Reasons for Estate Litigation in Manhattan Beach

During the probate or trust administration process, there is always the chance that a dispute will arise between beneficiaries, the executor of the will, or any involved trustees. Disputes also may occur in other situations such as complications with appointed conservatorship or guardianship.If you are facing an area of conflict over the estate of your loved one, an estate litigation lawyer from Meinzer Law Firm, PC, is here to help. We can assist you in navigating the complex California probate system and the nuances of estate law. We can help reach possible resolutions or defend your side in court.

There are many reasons why estate litigation may become necessary. These can include the following examples:

• An individual involved in the probate process, such as a beneficiary, believes that the assets are not being handled in accordance with the will or trust and with their loved one’s final wishes
• An individual involved in the probate or trust administration process is operating under the suspicion that the will or trust was forged, made under duress or undue influence, or that when the will or trust was created the estate owner was not of sound mind
• Other reasons for will or trust contests or challenges
• Accounting disputes or disputes that arise between beneficiaries over certain assets
• Breach of fiduciary duty disputes

Speak with a Trusted Estate Litigator Today

If you suspect undue behavior during the probate or trust administration process or are dealing with other forms of estate conflict, the team at Meinzer Law Firm, PC, is here to help. We understand the intricacies that come into play during the California probate and trust administration process and hope to be of assistance should litigation become necessary. Contact our office today for more information.