Probate administration is the legal process of identifying and distributing a deceased individual’s assets according to their will or state law and paying debts under the court’s supervision. It involves appointing a personal representative to complete the probate process. This person may be the executor of the will or a court-appointed administrator if there isn’t a will or named executor.

The personal representative must take several steps to complete the probate process, beginning with filing a Petition for Probate. The process typically ends with the final distribution of remaining assets after applicable debts or taxes are paid.

Generally, personal representatives have a year to complete probate in California. However, probate can go beyond a year if someone files a claim to contest the will or if the estate is complex and demands more time to manage assets properly.

When to Seek the Guidance of a Probate Administration Attorney

Probate administration can be complicated, particularly if the estate is complex or if there’s a dispute. Comprehensive estate planning can help ensure smoother probate administration by clearly outlining assets and beneficiaries. Still, beneficiaries can contest a will in probate court, delaying the process and potentially changing how assets are distributed. A probate attorney can streamline the administration of complex estates, help prevent disputes among beneficiaries and ensure deadlines are met.

If you’ve been appointed to manage probate administration and need assistance with the process, the experienced lawyers at Barulich Dugoni & Suttmann Law Group can help.

Our Probate Administration Services

Administering probate can be confusing, time-consuming and stressful. Our lawyers are available to guide and support you as you navigate probate administration so that you can move through the necessary steps efficiently and with peace of mind.

We’ll also work diligently to protect you from issues that could arise during probate administration and collaborate with accountants, asset managers and other stakeholders to relieve you of the burden.

Our probate administration services begin with a consultation. You can contact us to schedule an appointment with one of our attorneys at our Burlingame, California, office to start the process.

During your appointment, a probate lawyer will carefully listen to your situation, recommend the next steps, explain how they can assist you and answer your questions. Our probate administration services include:

• Preparing and filing the Petition for Probate.
• Notifying interested parties, including publishing a notice in the local newspaper to notify creditors.
• Proving the validity of the will if needed.
• Identifying and compiling assets that are subject to probate.
• Guiding you on paying applicable debts and estate taxes.
• Assisting with closing the estate, including providing the court with a detailed report on how the estate was handled.

Speak to a Probate Administration Lawyer at Barulich Dugoni & Suttmann Law Group

We understand that probate administration can feel daunting, especially while experiencing the loss of a loved one. Our experts are here to guide you through this challenging time and ensure each step is completed in compliance with California probate laws — regardless of the estate’s complexity.

If you need assistance administering probate or planning the management of your estate, contact us to speak with an experienced attorney.