Milford Law Firm

24007 Ventura Blvd Suite 200, Calabasas, ca 91302, United States

Main office: 818-222-2227

Call 24/7: 855-765-0871

Probate Law

southern California attorneys apc

Experienced Probate Attorneys in Southern California

We Simplify the Probate Process & Guide You Every Step of the Way

If you have recently lost a loved one, we extend our deepest sympathies. We understand that this is an emotional and challenging time, and dealing with the legal side of probate can add unnecessary stress. In California, the probate process is often required to legally transfer a deceased person's assets to their beneficiaries. Whether your loved one had a will or not, probate can be complex, time-consuming, and expensive—especially if the estate is large or if disputes arise between family members.


At Southern California Attorneys, A.P.C., our compassionate and knowledgeable probate lawyers are here to ease the burden of probate and guide you through every step. With over 60 years of combined legal experience, we help clients navigate the legal system, avoid costly mistakes, and ensure a smooth and efficient resolution of their loved one’s estate.

What Is Probate & Why Is It Necessary?

Probate is the court-supervised process of administering a deceased person’s estate. This includes:

  • Validating the will (if one exists)
  • Identifying and appraising assets
  • Paying outstanding debts and taxes
  • Distributing assets to beneficiaries

If a person passes away without a will, California law determines how their assets will be distributed. Even if a will exists, probate may still be required to ensure that assets are legally transferred and that the deceased’s financial obligations are resolved. The process can be lengthy, often taking months or even years, depending on the complexity of the estate.


How Our Probate Attorneys Can Help

The probate process can be overwhelming, but our experienced legal team is here to provide comprehensive support and ensure that the process moves forward as smoothly as possible. We can assist with:

  • Filing necessary court documents and handling all legal paperwork
  • Guiding executors and personal representatives through their responsibilities
  • Resolving disputes among heirs and beneficiaries
  • Minimizing delays and unnecessary expenses
  • Identifying legal strategies to expedite the probate process
  • Handling creditor claims and estate debts
  • Ensuring proper asset distribution

No matter how simple or complex the estate may be, our goal is to reduce stress and secure a fair outcome while protecting your legal rights.

Avoiding Probate Through Estate Planning

Probate is not always necessary, and there are legal strategies that can help families avoid probate altogether. Our attorneys also assist with estate planning, including living trusts, that allow assets to pass to beneficiaries without going through the court system. If you are concerned about probate for your own estate, we can help you put legal protections in place to ensure a smooth transfer of assets in the future.


Why Choose Southern California Attorneys, A.P.C.?

  • Over 60 years of combined experience handling probate cases
  • Personalized legal guidance to simplify the process
  • Compassionate and dedicated attorneys who prioritize your needs
  • Skilled negotiators and litigators in probate disputes
  • Commitment to protecting your rights and interests


Schedule a Consultation With Our Probate Attorneys Today

If you are facing probate in Southern California, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Southern California Attorneys, A.P.C. is here to handle the legal complexities for you and ensure that your loved one’s estate is managed properly.


Call today to schedule a confidential consultation and learn how we can help you through the probate process with compassion, efficiency, and expertise.



Let us take the legal burden off your shoulders—contact us today!

Probate Law FAQ's

Still have questions? Don't hesitate to reach out to our knowledgeable attorneys for the assistance you need. Whether you prefer to call us directly or use our convenient online contact form, we are here to help address your concerns and provide you with the guidance you're looking for. Your inquiries are important to us, so please feel free to get in touch!

  • How long does the probate process take in California?

    The length of the probate process in California depends on the complexity of the estate, the presence of disputes, and court availability. On average, probate can take 9 to 18 months, but larger or contested estates may take several years to fully resolve. Factors that can delay probate include:


    • Disputes between heirs or beneficiaries
    • Challenges to the validity of the will
    • Complex asset distribution or tax issues
    • Delays in filing necessary court documents

    Working with an experienced probate attorney can help expedite the process and minimize delays.


  • Do all estates have to go through probate in California?

    Not all estates require probate. Some exceptions include:


    • Estates valued under $184,500 (as of 2024) may qualify for simplified probate or small estate affidavits.
    • Assets held in a living trust can bypass probate.
    • Jointly owned property, such as real estate with right of survivorship, passes directly to the co-owner.
    • Accounts with designated beneficiaries, such as life insurance policies and retirement accounts, are transferred without probate.

    An estate planning attorney can help you structure your assets to avoid probate whenever possible.

  • Do I need an estate plan if I don’t have significant assets?

    Probate costs vary but can be significant due to court fees, attorney fees, and executor fees. In California, attorney and executor fees are set by state law based on the value of the estate:

    • 4% of the first $100,000
    • 3% of the next $100,000
    • 2% of the next $800,000
    • 1% of amounts over $1 million

    For example, if an estate is worth $500,000, probate attorney and executor fees alone could total $26,000. These costs can be reduced with proper estate planning, such as setting up a living trust.

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