Pros and cons of creating an irrevocable trust
Estate planning is important for virtually every person in California who has reached adulthood. This particularly is true if a person has started a family or has recently gotten married. When it comes to estate planning, with an eye ultimately to estate administration, there are a variety of factors that come into play. These include […]
Using TOD accounts to avoid probate court
Transfer-on-death accounts are allowed in many states, including California. Using these accounts can make it possible for the loved ones of deceased individuals to avoid probate court. Understanding how TODs work and what benefits they offer can help families make estate plans that work best for them. What is a TOD? Transfer-on-death accounts are not […]
Understanding testamentary trusts
Most people in California who are thinking about undergoing the estate planning process have many questions regarding the different documents. Some of the most commonly discussed documents are wills and trusts. One very beneficial type of structure to set up is a testamentary trust. What is a testamentary trust? Estate administration experts recommend organizing a […]
Can an executor be removed from a will?
Throughout the estate planning process in the state of California, you need to specify an executor for your estate. This executor will be responsible for carrying out the terms specified in your will, such as taking the will to probate court, liquidating assets if necessary and distributing any remaining assets to your named beneficiaries. As […]
What are the responsibilities of an estate’s executor?
After the death of a loved one, you might receive designation to be the executor of this person’s estate. If you’ve been appointed to the role of an executor in California, it’s understandable to wonder what comes next. Here are three important responsibilities you’ll have as an estate executor. Selling the house One of your […]
Which estates need a formal probate process?
Probate refers to a legal process followed when settling the estate of a person when they die. During the process, the court appoints a representative whose role is to distribute the property to the descendants according to the law. In California, the personal representative can hire an attorney for guidance during the complex process. Here […]
What to expect with holographic wills in California
The last will and testament concern an individual’s assets and how they will be distributed. A handwritten will is valid under California law if it meets minimal requirements. Known as a holographic will, it is an acceptable legal document that many testators use. What is a holistic will? A holistic will, also known as a […]
When does an estate need a formal probate?
In the administration of an estate, probate law in California allows people to handle the procedures as much on their own as possible. However, there are times when a judge and probate attorney are needed to properly administer an estate. Know when and why undergoing formal probate is necessary. When is a formal probate needed? […]
Is it possible for an estate executor in California to resign?
An estate executor is a person or institution in the estate administration and probate process that is in charge of executing the estate and managing the estate property according to the wishes of the deceased. In some cases, an estate executor can resign from his or her position as an estate administrator. Some circumstances make […]
Grounds for trustee removal
In California, removing a trustee from a trust is a serious step if a trustee is behaving in an inappropriate way. There are a few different aspects of trustee behavior that can qualify them for removal, and it’s the step to take if they do not change the behavior that is having a negative impact […]