Services: Probate

Welcome to Aliav Law, APC, a leading probate law firm in Beverly Hills and Los Angeles. Our expertise lies in guiding clients through the probate process with clarity and efficiency.

Understanding Probate in California

Probate is the legal process through which a deceased person’s estate is properly distributed to heirs and designated beneficiaries and any debt owed to creditors is paid off. Here’s what you need to know:

The Probate Process: Step by Step

• Filing the Petition: Initiating probate begins with filing a petition in the California probate court. This includes submitting the deceased’s will, if available, and identifying all potential heirs and beneficiaries.
• Probate Court Hearings: After filing, the court schedules a hearing to officially appoint an executor or administrator for the estate. This is also the time when any objections to the will or the appointment of the executor can be raised.
• Notification to Creditors and Inventory of Assets: The executor must notify potential creditors of the probate and take an inventory of the estate’s assets, including property valuations.
• Paying Debts and Taxes: The executor is responsible for paying the estate's debts, including any taxes owed.
• Final Distribution of Assets: Once debts and taxes are settled, the executor can distribute the remaining assets to the beneficiaries as per the will or state law in the absence of a will.

Probate Litigation and Dispute Resolution

Disputes can arise during probate. Our services include:

• Will Contests: Representing clients in contests over the validity of a will, which may involve claims of undue influence, lack of testamentary capacity, or improper execution.
• Executor Disputes: Resolving conflicts involving the executor's performance or the distribution of assets.

Estate Inventory and Appraisal in Probate

A critical part of probate involves valuing the estate:

• Asset Valuation: Comprehensive assessment and valuation of estate assets, including real estate, investments, and personal property.
• Appraisal Process: Coordinating with professional appraisers to accurately determine the value of complex assets.

Managing Estate Debts and Taxes

Handling debts and taxes is a vital role of the executor:

• Debt Settlement: Ensuring all legitimate debts of the estate are identified and paid.
• Tax Obligations: Calculating and settling any state and federal estate taxes due.

Final Distribution and Closing the Estate

The concluding phase of probate includes:

• Asset Distribution: Distributing the remaining assets to the rightful beneficiaries in accordance with the will or state laws.
• Final Accounting and Closing the Estate: Preparing a final accounting of all financial transactions and seeking the court's approval to close the estate.

Why Choose Aliav Law, APC for Probate Services?

At Aliav Law, APC, we offer personalized and compassionate service to navigate the complexities of probate. Our experienced team in Beverly Hills and Los Angeles ensures that your probate process is handled efficiently and respectfully.

Expert Legal Support for Probate Matters

For dedicated assistance with probate proceedings in Beverly Hills and Los Angeles, contact Aliav Law, APC today. Our skilled attorneys are committed to providing the guidance and support you need during this challenging time.