Choosing an executor for an estate is an important decision no matter the size of the estate. California residents may want to consider the following when making this decision. An executor is an individual who is appointed to administer the estate of a deceased...
Why someone might challenge a will
Generally speaking, probate courts in California and elsewhere in America stick as closely as possible to the words written in a will. However, it may be possible for an interested party to challenge the validity of the will. Statistically, a deceased person's spouse...
Identifying interested parties in will contests
One of the first questions that must be answered when a will is contested in California is who are the interested parties. And while this question may seem simple enough on the surface, it can be a complicated question to answer in some cases. In fact, the petitioner...
Who can contest a will
When a person dies with a will in California, the will must pass through probate court before any assets listed in the will are distributed to the identified beneficiaries. While the will is in probate court, any interested party can contest the validity of the will....
How to make a challenge to a will less likely
Some people who are creating an estate plan might be concerned that it could be vulnerable to challenges. There are ways to make a will contest less likely. First, people should not put off creating a will. The document should be made when there is no question about...
Are there advantages to going through probate?
As you plan your estate, you may hear about many strategies that can help you avoid probate, the legal process that oversees the distribution of an estate. However, avoiding probate is not the best option for every estate, and fear of probate can result in costly...
