Probate Administration and Litigation

Probate Lawyer Serving Santa Clarita Valley

The death of a loved one can be a difficult and emotional time for you and your family. Having to handle or dispute the financial affairs that have been left behind in their will can make the process even harder to deal with. Valencia probate lawyer, Steffanie Stelnick, is here to help you smoothly resolve these affairs, giving you peace of mind during this time.

The Law Offices of Steffanie Stelnick services include:

What Is Probate?

Probate occurs when the court supervises the process of transferring a deceased person’s property and assets to his or her beneficiaries/heirs. In order to begin the probate process, whoever was named “executor” in the will must come forward to the court. If there is no will or the will does not name an executor, someone else must request that they be made executor. The court will make the decision, but usually a family member is chosen.

The probate process typically involves the following steps:

1. The executor files the will and a “Petition for Probate” with the county court where the deceased person lived
2. Formal notices must be sent to all the heirs and creditors notifying them that probate has begun
3. The court reviews all paperwork and grants the executor official authority over the deceased person’s assets
4. The executor begins gathering and documenting all assets, which must be presented to the court. The executor must also use assets to pay off any debts and taxes the decedent left behind.
5. Once all debts have been paid, the executor ask the court to conclude probate. After this approval, the heirs may receive their inheritance.

Do I Need a Probate Lawyer?

Having an experienced probate lawyer on your side is beneficial for a variety of reasons. The process can become complicated, especially if disputes arise. 

Disputes Over Validity of a Will

The court must acknowledge that a will is valid. If a dispute arises regarding the validity of a will, the probate process can get delayed and become complicated. A lawyer can help represent your best interests and help ensure that justice is accomplished.

Disputes About Inheritance

Disputes often arise regarding the distribution of inheritance. Because these disagreements usually arise among family members, the situation can be emotional and distressing. A skilled legal professional can provide experienced guidance in these matters and help protect your rights. If disagreements arise regarding how to interpret the will, how to distribute inheritance, who the executor should be, and other disputes, Steffanie Stelnick can provide strong legal representation.

Selling Real Estate During Probate

An executor is free to manage most of the decedent’s assets without court permission. However, he or she does need permission in order to sell real estate property. Our Valencia probate lawyer is well-versed in California real estate law and can help you navigate this complicated process.

If you are in need of an experienced professional to guide you through the probate administration process or to help you resolve a probate dispute, contact the Santa Clarita probate lawyer at our firm today to schedule your free consultation!