Guiding Clients Through The Probate Process

After a loved one has passed away, you are left with the prospect of determining how to legally distribute assets and wrap up his or her affairs. Even if your loved one had a will, it is not as simple as transferring property. Additionally, contrary to popular belief, a power of attorney is no longer effective after your loved one’s death. In order to legally transfer or sell the property of a loved one following his or her death, you must first obtain court permission. Probate is the court process for validating a loved one’s will and distributing his or her assets.

Navigating probate on your own can lead to stress, worry and unnecessary expenses. The value of obtaining qualified legal guidance is immense.

At The Law Office of Theresa L. McConville, we can help walk you through the process. With more than 40 years of combined experience, our Camarillo-based probate attorney is sensitive to the often overwhelming nature of probate in the wake of a loved one’s death. Our goal is to minimize your stress and hassle and help ease the transition through this difficult time in life.

Is Probate Always Necessary?

Given the expense and length of probate proceedings, the first question is whether probate is necessary at all. If your loved one had a small estate under a certain dollar value, you may be able to take advantage of summary proceedings to avoid the difficulties of probate. However, most larger estates must go through probate. Careful estate planning can allow you to avoid probate entirely. Certain trusts can eliminate the need to pursue court processes, which can drastically simplify the transition. Additionally, a properly written will is crucial to streamlining probate and estate administration.

The Value Of Professional Legal Guidance

Probate proceedings can be convoluted. Some situations can heighten the complexity, for example, if your loved one left a hand-written will or an outdated trust. Additionally, many times, the process may not go as smoothly as you expect. Disputes may erupt between family members over the validity of the will. Even if a trust is involved, disagreements over its administration can land everyone in court. Because of the possibility that unexpected disputes may arise, it is important to seek guidance from an experienced attorney at the outset.

Do Not Wait To Contact A Lawyer

To speak with a lawyer about your situation, call The Law Office of Theresa L. McConville in Camarillo, California, at 805-910-7905. You may also contact us online. If you decide not to proceed after consulting with us about estate planning services, you will not be charged for the initial consultation. If you do elect to proceed, we handle estate planning matters on a reasonable flat-fee basis.