Do All Estates Require Probate?

trust attorney in Orange County

Do All Estates Require Probate? Losing a loved one is never easy, and when you find yourself entrusted with the responsibility of managing their estate, it can be an overwhelming experience. Not only are you dealing with grief, but you're also tasked with carrying out their final wishes.

However, before you can begin, you'll need to initiate the probate process by filing the will with the probate court. This intricate procedure can be a minefield if you're not well-versed in it. That's where a probate attorney in Orange County can be your invaluable guide.

Are you wondering whether your estate will be subject to probate? Let's delve into estates that are exempt from probate and how you can qualify for a probate alternative.

What is Probate?

Probate is a legal process that allows the court to review a deceased person's estate and determine how to divide it among beneficiaries. It occurs whether or not a person has a will.

If the deceased person has a will, the probate court will assess it and determine if it is valid. If so, they will formally assign an executor for the decedent's estate, and that person will divide the estate assets accordingly.

When a person dies without a will, a California probate court will step in and make decisions about how to distribute their assets.

Some probate cases last for over a year, particularly if the case is complicated or if family members dispute the outcome. Probate issues can prove to be both frustrating and expensive—which is why it is worth it to plan ahead to avoid the court if at all possible.

Creating an estate plan with an Orange County probate lawyer can save your loved ones time and money—allowing them the opportunity to grieve in peace after your death.

Is Probate a Mandatory Process?

Probate is required for most estates, but not all. In certain circumstances, California residents can petition for a simpler alternative to the formal probate process.

Many people seek this option because it can save them valuable time and money. Instead of dealing with legal issues and lengthy cases, you can submit an affidavit that will allow you to take legal ownership of your inherited assets.

A probate attorney in Orange County can help you identify ways to simplify your estate so your loved ones can inherit your property quickly and painlessly. Instead of hiring probate lawyers, they will be able to grieve and settle your affairs in peace.

How Can You Avoid Probate?

Simply creating an estate plan doesn't allow you to avoid Orange County probate court, although it's a good start. Wills and other documents do not exempt you from the process.

The court makes an exception for surviving spouses, small estates, property in trusts, and anything that falls outside of probate jurisdiction.

Through careful estate planning and working with an Orange County probate attorney, you can avoid probate altogether. Your attorney can also help you prepare the paperwork and settle legal matters as they arise.

Surviving Spousal Property Petitions

Spouses and domestic partners can often skip probate and instead automatically inherit personal property. With items like furniture, clothing, and other personal effects, there's no need to submit any paperwork.

Real property that is owned with the right of survivorship will also transfer automatically to the surviving spouse. If there's a need to retitle the property, the spouse can submit an affidavit to complete the transfer.

For property without the right of survivorship, a spouse can submit a spousal property petition. Though this route does require some paperwork, it is still much faster than probate court. There's no limit to the value of the property that can be transferred this way, and it can be used for everything from real estate to stocks.

Small Estate Probate

In Orange County, CA, small estate probate procedures can expedite the process and make things much easier. Instead of going to court and hiring an attorney, beneficiaries can submit an affidavit for the transfer of property or real estate.

As of April 2022, a small estate is an estate that is worth less than $184,500. The court adjusts this cutoff for inflation every three years.

This limit may seem low. However, when calculating your assets to see whether you qualify for this option, you can exclude:

  • Real estate held outside California
  • Vehicles, including boats
  • Property owned with joint tenancy
  • Living trust assets
  • Property that a surviving spouse inherits outright
  • Transfer-on-death property
  • Any other assets that would not be subject to probate

By excluding these assets, it is much easier to qualify for small estate probate procedures. Your probate attorney in Orange County can set up a trust for you and find other ways to ensure your estate qualifies for this path.

Trusts

Trusts are a useful estate planning tool, and they have many benefits, including avoiding Orange County probate. Trusts allow for automatic transfer of property ownership to the beneficiaries listed and they can be personalized to fit your unique financial and legal needs.

All assets contained in a trust are private, unlike property that is transferred via the will. Trusts also protect your assets from lawsuits, like personal injury cases where the claimant demands payment for damages. They also protect assets from creditor claims.

A trust attorney in Orange County may recommend a trust as the best option for your estate.

Designate a Beneficiary

Many financial accounts allow you to designate a beneficiary through the bank, and all of these accounts are exempt from probate.

Retirement accounts, bank accounts, life insurance policies, and other accounts can automatically transfer to beneficiaries upon the owner's death with no need for involvement from probate courts.

Hire Our Skilled Probate Attorney in Orange County

At Parker Law Offices, we can take care of all your estate planning needs. Our reputable attorneys are knowledgeable in creating solid estate plans that allow for a seamless transfer of assets to beneficiaries.

We also help clients through the probate process and help them determine if they qualify for alternatives. With the help of a probate law firm, you can get a much better outcome, save money, and potentially reduce your estate taxes.

To schedule your free consultation with a skilled probate attorney in Orange County, fill out our online form or contact us at 949-867-4818 at Parker Law Offices today!

Maria Parker assists her clients plan for their end of life health care wishes and the ultimate distribution of their wealth after death. She personally experienced the importance of planning at the time her father passed away.

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