Blog | Scott D. Fisher, APLC

Formal vs. Informal Probate

Posted on February 11, 2026

Formal probate and informal probate are the two primary ways an estate is handled in California, and the difference between them can affect how long the process takes, how much it costs, and how involved the court will be. Informal probate is often quicker and less expensive, but it is not available...

Is Probate Always Necessary?

Posted on January 14, 2026

Probate is not required in every California estate, but it becomes necessary when certain assets cannot be transferred without a court order. Whether probate can be avoided depends on how the estate is structured and the types of property involved. In some cases, assets move smoothly through trusts, joint ownership, or beneficiary...

The Essential Documents Every California Estate Plan Should Include

Posted on December 12, 2025

Creating an estate plan is one of the most effective ways to protect your family, your assets, and your future. In California, several legal documents work together to make sure your wishes are carried out, both during your lifetime and after. A strong estate plan typically includes a will, a trust, powers...

What to Expect When You’re Named Trustee in California

Posted on December 4, 2025

Being named the trustee of a California trust can feel like both an honor and a significant responsibility. Trustees must manage trust assets, communicate with beneficiaries, and follow California’s legal requirements for accounting and administration. Understanding your duties from the start can help you avoid disputes, prevent mistakes, and protect both the...

What to Do If Your Sibling Tries to Take Over as Executor of an Estate

Posted on November 13, 2025

Family relationships can become strained after the death of a loved one, especially when disagreements arise about who should manage the estate. It’s not uncommon for one sibling to take control, or try to, before the probate court formally appoints an executor. When this happens, it’s important to understand your rights...

How to Handle Probate When There Are Multiple Wills

Posted on November 3, 2025

When a person leaves behind more than one will, it can create confusion and conflict among family members. Multiple wills may surface for many reasons, such as when the deceased made updates over time or drafted different wills for property in separate states. Whatever the reason, determining which document is valid becomes...

What Happens If Someone Dies Without a Will in California?

Posted on October 30, 2025

When someone passes away without a will, California law determines how their property is distributed. This situation, known as dying intestate, can create confusion and conflict for surviving family members. Without a written will, your wishes aren’t automatically known, and the state steps in to decide who inherits what.

What Is the Difference Between a Beneficiary and an Heir

Posted on October 6, 2025

Some people believe that the words Beneficiary and Heir mean the same thing and that they are interchangeable, but there are very distinct differences between these two terms. What Is a Beneficiary? A Beneficiary refers to those whom you specifically...

What is a Living Will?

Posted on September 25, 2025

A Living Will is a legal document that specifies your wishes regarding life-prolonging medical treatment and makes these wishes known to others. You may believe that you will communicate such wishes to your family members and doctors if you become seriously ill or if...

Attorney Scott D. Fisher Speaking at WEHO Chamber Event

Posted on June 20, 2016

We are excited to announce that Attorney Scott D. Fisher will be speaking at the upcoming West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce Small Business Seminar Series: Life Gift and Beyond Trusts. This event, hosted by the Mass Mutual Financial Group, is the second in a series of events dedicated to public education on...

Attorney Scott Fisher to Speak at Probate Seminar

Posted on July 2, 2015

Attorney Scott Fisher is looking forward to speaking at a one-day seminar sponsored by the National Business Institute on July 17, 2015. The seminar, titled “The Probate Process from Start to Finish,” will be held from 8:30 AM to 4:40 PM at the Hilton Garden Inn Palm Springs/Rancho Mirage, California.

Scott D. Fisher & Associates Celebrates 20th Anniversary

Posted on March 16, 2015

With each passing year, our law firm looks back on all that we’ve accomplished since opening our doors. This year is an especially significant one, because March 15 th signifies the 20 th anniversary of the founding of our law firm. We are thrilled at this accomplishment and feel that it is a testimony to the...