Services

Probate and Estate Administration

The administration of an estate describes managing the assets of a deceased individual. We counsel personal representatives of an estate (i.e., executors, trustees, administrations, etc.) in connection with the tasks and responsibilities (i.e., duties) associated with the collection, valuation and distribution of the estate assets and in the preparation of estate tax returns (if such returns are necessary). We advise personal representatives on all aspects of administration including the interpretation of the Will or trust instrument, the personal representative's potential liability, and the preparation and settlement of their financial records.

We also advise beneficiaries of trusts and estates regarding their rights and entitlements. We review accounts and receipts, release, refunding, and indemnification agreements for beneficiaries to ensure that the fiduciaries performed their roles honestly, fairly and in the beneficiaries' best interest according to the California Probate Code. We also counsel beneficiaries of estates on the tax consequences of disclaiming assets.