Guidance For The Duties Of Settling A Loved One’s Estate
If you were named in a will as executor or nominated as the personal representative of an estate, you have a laundry list of tasks to complete, some of them with court-imposed deadlines. It can be a time-consuming and overwhelming job, all while you are still grieving that person’s death.
I am Cheryl Forbes, a California probate lawyer in Red Bluff with decades of experience helping people in your situation. You can lean on me for patient and compassionate assistance with probate and estate administration (as well as administration of trusts if applicable). I practice in Tehama County and often represent out-of-state administrators who need a local guide for the legal process.
What Is Probate? What Is Estate Administration?
These terms are sometimes used interchangeably and often used together. Probate is the court-supervised process for distributing a person’s assets after they are deceased. Estate administration more broadly refers to all of the legal and financial aftermath of a person’s estate, including assets that are not subject to probate proceedings.
If the deceased had a will, and you are named in the will as the person in charge of their estate, you are called an executor. If the person dies intestate (without a will), the person in charge of their estate is known as an administrator or a personal representative. The duties are largely the same in both scenarios and may include some or all of the following:
- Gathering all the assets and important documents
- Obtaining valuations of assets
- Locating and notifying heirs and beneficiaries
- Paying debts of the estate
- Liquidating assets as necessary
- Filing tax returns for the estate
- Accounting and reporting
- Distributing the remainder to the beneficiaries
Why You Should Get Help From A Probate Attorney
My experience handling many probate cases allows me to help you discharge your duties efficiently. I know the shortcuts and tips to streamline the process. I know the red flags and common pitfalls to help you avoid getting bogged down or embroiled in unnecessary disputes. Whether your family member had a formal estate plan or died without any provisions in place, I can guide the way.
There are also important timelines that you do not want to miss. I can advise you on those deadlines and the steps to take to minimize delays and prepare for the hearings at different stages. Lastly, I can help to make sure that everything is done properly in accordance with California law and the local probate court’s protocols.
There’s No Time Like The Present. I’ll Help You Get Started.
I can provide a free consultation to answer your questions about the probate process and my services. I am here to support you at every step and to make a daunting process less stressful. The Law Office of Cheryl A. Forbes serves clients throughout Tehama County and the North State area. Call me today at 530-527-7500 or contact me online.
