Skilled Counsel in Southern California Estate Administration
Whenever someone dies, a new legal entity comes into existence: the decedent's estate. Whether or not there was a last will and testament in place, the estate takes title to the decedent's assets until their orderly transfer to heirs, beneficiaries or creditors can be completed.
The San Diego probate attorneys of Boyd Contreras, LLP, advise the executors and administrators responsible for acting on behalf of the estate, and in many cases, we can handle all aspects of the work for you. Contact us at either of our two locations to find out about our experience and client service values.
Errors in the probate of wills and the administration of estates can lead to delays, additional expenses, and in some situations, liability on the part of the executor or administrator to the persons damaged by the mistakes. Our lawyers can make a prompt assessment of the main tasks and issues that are likely to come up in your case, and we can give you a good idea of the time and expenses involved from the probate of the will to the final report and distribution.
Boyd Contreras, LLP, can act on behalf of the executor named in the will or the administrator appointed by the court if no will existed. We also handle California estate administration functions for executors and administrators who live in other states. Here are some of the primary functions we perform under probate court supervision:
- Present the will for probate
- Notify heirs, beneficiaries and creditors
- Assemble assets and prepare an inventory of the estate
- Coordinate and execute sales of personal and real property
- Review, settle or contest third-party claims against the estate
- Prepare interim and final reports for the court
- Prepare estate and fiduciary tax returns
- Distribute assets under the terms of the will, or if there was none, the rules of intestate succession
In our experience, prompt client service and full notice to all interested parties helps to avoid the misunderstandings and conflicts that can lead to probate litigation such as will contests or claims against the estate's fiduciaries. The careful attention of an experienced probate lawyer can accomplish a great deal toward the prompt completion of the estate administration tasks.
San Diego Trust and Estate Administration Lawyers
Boyd Contreras, LLP, also works with trustees and successor trustees who need legal advice about the nature and scope of trust administration duties under living trusts, life insurance trusts, family business trusts and special needs trusts. To learn more about our experience with trust and estate administration in Southern California, contact us in San Diego or Newport Beach.
