PROBATE SERVICES
When a loved one passes away, their estate often goes through probate – a court-supervised process that distributes their property according to their will or, if there’s no will, according to state law. Probate may also be necessary if assets weren’t properly transferred into a trust during their lifetime.
Every probate case is unique. Some resolve within a year, while others take longer. The process can feel overwhelming during an already difficult time, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Compassionate guidance through every step protects your family’s interests while honoring your loved one’s legacy.
Comprehensive probate services cover everything from filing necessary documents and appearing at court hearings to providing required notices and coordinating with appraisers, realtors, title officers, escrow officers, CPAs, and other professionals – all the support needed to guide you through this journey with confidence and care.
Probate Services
- Filing probate petitions
- Estate inventory and valuation
- Creditor claims management
- Asset distribution to beneficiaries
- Court representation and hearings
- Probate dispute resolution
- Estate closing procedures
- Trust administration guidance
- Coordination with financial professionals
In California probate matters, attorney’s fees follow a statutory formula set forth in California Probate Code Section 10810 and are paid only after court approval. These fees are calculated on the gross value of the estate using a sliding scale: 4% on the first $100,000, 3% on the next $100,000, 2% on the next $800,000, 1% on the next $9,000,000, 0.5% on the next $15,000,000, and a reasonable amount determined by the court for estates over $25,000,000.
In certain cases, the court may also approve extraordinary fees under Probate Code Section 10811 for services beyond standard estate administration, such as litigation, real property sales, tax preparation, or will contests. This structure provides families with transparency and ensures legal costs are handled appropriately throughout the process.
Every family’s situation is unique. The approach here combines deep legal knowledge with personal attention, honoring your loved one’s deep roots in family and community while creating lasting legacies for future generations.
Questions about probate services are always welcome. Whether you’re dealing with a will that needs to be probated or managing an estate without one, knowledgeable and compassionate representation is here to guide you through this challenging time.