When someone close to you passes away, handling that person’s estate often means going through probate—a legal process that can feel overwhelming, especially during a difficult time. At Scott D. Fisher, A Professional Law Corporation, we provide steady, experienced guidance to families throughout Los Angeles.
Every estate is different, and so are the needs of each family. Whether you’re just beginning the probate process or have questions about how to proceed, we take the time to understand your situation and offer clear, respectful support. We’re here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
What Is Probate and When Is It Required in California?
Probate is the court-supervised process of managing and distributing a person’s estate after death. It includes identifying and collecting the person’s assets, paying debts and taxes, and transferring property to the rightful heirs or beneficiaries. In California, the probate process is overseen by the Superior Court.
Probate is generally required when someone dies while owning assets in their name alone, without joint ownership or named beneficiaries. Common examples include:
- Real estate titled solely in the decedent’s name
- Bank or brokerage accounts without a payable-on-death designation
- Vehicles, jewelry, or personal property of significant value
If a valid will exists, probate is necessary to give the executor (also known as the personal representative) the legal authority to act on behalf of the estate. If there is no will, the court will appoint an administrator to manage the estate and distribute assets according to California law. We will review your situation and help determine the right steps for moving forward.
Understanding the Probate Process in California
Probate follows a structured series of steps in California. Here’s an overview:
- Filing the Petition: The process begins by filing a petition with the Superior Court. The original will (if available) must be submitted along with the filing.
- Scheduling the Hearing: Once filed, the court will typically set a hearing date within four to six weeks.
- Notice to Beneficiaries and Heirs: The law requires that all heirs and beneficiaries receive formal notice. An adult not involved in the case must mail the notices, and a notice must also be published in a newspaper.
- Inventory and Appraisal: The executor or administrator must prepare a complete inventory of the estate’s assets and arrange for an official appraisal.
- Paying Debts and Taxes: Outstanding debts must be addressed, and necessary tax returns must be filed on behalf of the estate.
- Asset Distribution: After debts and taxes are satisfied, the remaining property is distributed according to the will or California’s intestate succession laws if no will exists.
We work closely with families to help ensure each requirement is completed thoroughly and on time.
How Long Does Probate Take?
Most probate cases in California take between nine months and two years. Several factors can affect the timeline, including:
- Disagreements among heirs
- Difficulty locating or valuing estate assets
- Delays in resolving creditor claims or tax matters
By staying organized and addressing potential issues early, we help families avoid many common delays and complete the probate process as efficiently as possible.
Why Work With Us
Attorney Scott D. Fisher brings more than 35 years of probate experience to every case. Our team understands that probate in Los Angeles comes with its own challenges, from complying with specific court procedures to managing complex estates that often involve real estate, business interests, and diverse family needs.
Cases filed with the Los Angeles County Superior Court require close attention to local rules and deadlines. We help ensure that each requirement is addressed correctly, giving our clients steady support from beginning to end. We also recognize that in some cases, language barriers can add another layer of difficulty. Our bilingual team is ready to assist Spanish-speaking families, ensuring that every client receives clear communication and full understanding throughout the process.
We take pride in offering direct attorney access, flexible scheduling, and a willingness to meet clients where they are. Every family we represent receives respectful, individualized attention and a commitment to making a difficult process as manageable as possible.
Contact an Experienced Los Angeles Probate Attorney
At Scott D. Fisher, A Professional Law Corporation, we are here to help you move through the probate process with confidence and care. Whether you are starting the process or facing a complex probate issue, we offer trusted legal support backed by decades of experience.
If you are ready to take the next step, we invite you to contact our office to schedule a free consultation. Let us help you protect your loved one’s legacy and manage this important responsibility with clarity.