Trust Administration & Probate in California
Guiding You Through Life’s Difficult Times
Grief is hard enough without legal paperwork. Probate and trust administration can feel overwhelming — court filings, deadlines, notices, and asset transfers all demand attention. We help Los Angeles and Ventura County families navigate the process with compassion and care.
What is Probate?
Probate is the court process for distributing assets when someone passes away. It involves validating the will, paying debts, and transferring property to heirs. In California, probate can take over a year, especially in Los Angeles County’s busy court system.
If your loved one had a living trust, probate may be avoided — but trustees still face duties like notifying heirs, handling assets, filing taxes, and distributing property. We guide trustees through each step so nothing is missed.
How We Help Executors & Trustees
Assisting with property transfers.
Preparing trust accountings and final distributions.
We also work to resolve disputes, from disagreements between heirs to ambiguities in trust documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a lawyer for probate?
Yes. Probate requires strict compliance with California law, and missing a deadline can delay the process.
How long does probate take?
Most estates in Los Angeles take 9–18 months to close.
Can probate be avoided?
Yes, with a properly funded living trust. That’s why proactive estate planning is so valuable.
Moving Forward Together
We’ve created a “What to Do When a Loved One Dies” checklist to help families take immediate next steps. Combined with our guidance, it eases the burden during a difficult time.
