Wills and Trusts Information Center
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Frequently Asked Questions about Wills and Trusts
Q: What is probate?
A: Probate is a court process to determine the validity of a will. If the will is found valid, the personal representative named in the will (the executor) will gather the assets of the testator to be appraised. The representative will then contact creditors so they may present their claims for any amounts due. After payment of debts, taxes and administration costs, the remaining property will be distributed in accordance with the will. In a situation where this is no will, probate allows the court to direct the distribution of a person's assets in accordance with the state's intestacy laws.
Q: What assets are included in my probate estate?
A: Probate assets are what you own at the time of death. This includes any property with your name on the title. It also includes personal items such as collections, antiques, cars and the value of any life insurance policies, trusts, annuities and/or retirement plans payable to the estate. If you own any stocks, bonds or other investments, these also are included.
The timely, cost-effective drafting of wills and trusts calls for an attorney who is experienced in handling estate planning matters and dedicated to providing personal service. Contact our firm today to schedule a consultation and case evaluation with an estate planning attorney.
Orange County Living Will Lawyer
Your last Will and testament is arguably the most important document you will ever create. At Stolar & Associates our Wills and trusts attorneys can help you draft or revise a Will to protect your family's future in the event of your death, plan for the distribution of your assets, and arrange for the guardianship of your minor children. When your circumstances change, such as with marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or new assets, so should your Will. Our sound legal advice will ensure that your current Will covers all the bases and that your Will is fully recognized by the State of California. In addition, our attorneys are knowledgeable in estate planning, living trusts and other techniques that protect your assets and minimize estate taxes. For 20 years, we've helped clients throughout Southern California (including greater Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, and surrounding areas) plan for their future. Learn more about Wills and trusts below.
To speak directly to a knowledgeable lawyer today about your Will, please call 310.288.1828 or contact us online.
Wills and Trusts - An Overview
A will is a written communication by which a person directs how his or her estate is to be distributed upon death. The estate consists of the property that one leaves behind after death. A trust is the legal right to the beneficial enjoyment of property to which another person holds the legal title. Wills and trusts are commonly used estate planning tools.
The advice and assistance of an experienced wills and trusts attorney at Stolar & Associates, A Professional Law Corporation in Beverly Hills, California, are essential to making sure that the measures you choose comply with your state's law and truly carry out your wishes.
Why Do I Need a Will?
Wills are the most basic element of estate planning. A will is a legal document that explains how you want your property and assets distributed after your death. It allows you to say who you want to carry out your wishes and provides you with the opportunity to nominate a guardian for your minor children.
Trusts 101
A trust is a great estate planning tool for anyone who wants to avoid the costs associated with probate, decrease the amount of taxes paid at death and provide limitations on their young children's ability to access money left to them.
A User's Guide to Probate
Probate is the court-supervised process of winding up your affairs after death. Many people believe the smart thing to do is to avoid the costs and hassles of probate. Contrary to this popular belief, the probate of most estates runs smoothly. The court's supervision ensures that any outstanding debts, taxes and claims against your estate are paid and that your remaining assets are divided among your heirs.
Death and Taxes: Planning for Both
When you die, the assets and property interests you leave behind minus any debts make up your estate. Whether your assets go through probate or you have set up alternative means for transferring your property, any estate or other taxes owed at the time of your death must be paid.
Wills and Trusts Resource Links
American Bar Association Estate Planning FAQs
Gateway resource providing users with information on estate planning, drafting wills, choosing trusts, types of nonprobate property, powers of attorney and more.
U.S. General Services Administration-Planning Your Estate
Pamphlet provided by MetLife Consumer Education Center providing information on beginning the estate planning process, including selecting an executor and guardian.
What is a Will? AARP® Self-Help Guide
This site provides a user-friendly guide for understanding wills and why everyone should have one.
The Probate Process
This American Bar Association resource provides general information on the probate process, including information on the costs, how long the process takes and what types of estates pass through probate.
American Bar Association Family Legal Guide to Estate Planning
An introduction to the topic of estate planning. The Web site provides answers to commonly asked questions regarding wills, trusts, living wills and other estate planning tools.
