472 legal [2, *]questions have been posted about wills and probate by real users in California. Ask your question and dive into the knowledge of attorneys who handle your issue regularly. Similar topics to explore also include living wills, and contested wills. All topics and other states can be accessed in the dropdowns below.
Recent Legal Answers
You may think you know the executor's intent but the law requires that he follow your grandmother's Will. If, in fact, he does not, contact a... Read Answer
A Will becomes a public document once it is submitted for probate. Check with the local probate court for a copy.
Most states require an... Read Answer
If she has a life estate, you cannot collect rent. She owns the home for life -- or until she decides to move. She can fix things and... Read Answer
In some states beneficiaries of a trust age 25 and older are entitled to an annual report -- but not to a copy of the trust document. Ask a... Read Answer
Who inherits what is governed by the state's laws of intestacy. It has nothing to do with what this family member or that might want. Contact a local... Read Answer
The executor of your mother's Will has a duty to collect her property, pay her debts and distribute the rest according to her Will. It appears... Read Answer
I would recommend you make an appointment with an attorney. The attorney will review your family situation and your assets, explain the differences... Read Answer
There is a danger in assuming. In most states a beneficiary under a Will can present it if the named executor does not act. But from your... Read Answer
If there is a will which will be probated, or a trust which will be administered all heirs at law must be sent a copy of the will or trust, even if... Read Answer
You are responsible for the lien up to the amount of the property you receive. You should hire an attorney to do a spousal property petition to get... Read Answer
You should consult with an attorney experienced in special needs trusts. You can search on SpecialNeeds Answers.com, or look on the ElderCounsel.com... Read Answer
You need to locate a lawyer who serves the county in which your grandmother died and owned property. Meanwhile, contact the credit bureaus and notify... Read Answer
If you own a home you really need a trust, not a will. Ditto if your child is s minor. Call an attorney or two in your area, and set up an... Read Answer
It all depends on the facts. If you want to contest a Will or are afraid that a Will may be contested, take it to a local probate lawyer and... Read Answer
An insured person can name anyone they want as beneficiaries. The beneficiaries don’t have to inform anyone else about the policy. It’s... Read Answer
You are not liable for your mother's debts after her death. An heir who receives property from someone who's deceased is liable for debts, but only... Read Answer
There is no reason a will, or a trust, would ever be filed anywhere while the settlor is alive. You should research among her papers to find out... Read Answer
Normally, only the original will is valid. If you are moving to another state, you should make new estate planning documents in that state.
Your mother is what's called a "putative spouse." That is, she married in good faith thinking the marriage was legal. Typically the courts in equity... Read Answer
The probate case must be brought where the father lived when he died. If the father lived in a foreign country, then the probate case must be... Read Answer