Redondo Beach Probate Lawyer

Suffering the loss of a loved one is never an easy experience. This difficulty can only increase when you are called to undergo the process of settling the estate of your deceased loved one through California probate. This process can be costly, time-consuming, and confusing, especially in cases where your loved one did not leave behind a valid will. During these difficult legal situations, a Redondo Beach probate lawyer can offer legal counsel and guidance.

What Is Probate in Redondo Beach, California?

In the state of California, when someone owns assets and dies, often their estate will need to go through the probate process so that the transfer of any property held within this estate is done in a valid and legal way. This can happen regardless of whether or not the deceased individual had a will. In cases where there is no will involved, an attorney’s counsel and representation can be especially important to ensure the estate is settled in probate through fair and legal means.

There are some exceptions to the probate process, and not every estate will need to go through it. If your loved one dies with a trust in place, the assets held within the trust will not need to undergo probate. Additionally, if the value of the estate is below a certain amount, it will not be subjected to the probate process.

Despite these exceptions, there will be circumstances in which probate is unavoidable. In these situations, contacting a Redondo Beach probate lawyer can be a crucial move to protect your own interests and the interests of your deceased loved one.

The California Probate Process

The process of probate in California can be extremely complex and time-consuming, and depending on the type of property held within the estate and the value of this property, tensions may rise between heirs. In order to make the probate process move as quickly and efficiently as possible, hiring an attorney is the right option. They can help you and your loved ones through every step probate requires, including the following:

• The appointment of an estate executor
• Proving that any involved will is legal and valid
• Identifying, inventorying, and assigning value to the assets and properties held within the estate
• Paying any debts or taxes owed by the estate
• Distributing the remaining assets and properties among named heirs in accordance with the wishes of the deceased in cases where a will is involved. In cases where a valid will is not involved, once debts and taxes are paid, the courts will determine how assets are distributed according to intestate laws

Speak with an Experienced Probate Attorney Today

Allowing a lawyer to assist you through the probate process can have several benefits, including working to ensure the process is done in a time-effective manner and in accordance with the wishes of the deceased. There can be a large number of complications involved in these legal proceedings, but with assistance from the team at Meinzer Law Firm, PC, you can rest assured knowing that the issues regarding your family member’s estate can be handled correctly.

Reach out to our offices today if you are wondering whether a probate lawyer can help you and schedule a consultation with our team. Whatever your probate matter entails, we are here to serve you.