About Sandy McCarthy

Sandra M. McCarthy, founder of ProbatebyME.com / A People’s Choice has worked exclusively in the legal field since 1976. She served as the 2004-2005 President of CALDA (California Association of Legal Document Assistants). She obtained a Paralegal Certificate from the University of California, Santa Barbara. During her career in the legal field, she has worked as a freelance paralegal, law office manager and paralegal studies teacher, and has co-authored numerous legal publications and written hundreds of self-help legal articles. As a registered Legal Document Assistant, Sandy is dedicated to providing affordable, low-cost, self-help document preparation services for California consumers in all 58 counties.

How to Open an Estate Account During Probate

By |2019-11-06T08:08:23-08:00November 3rd, 2019|

There are five steps to open an estate bank account. 1) File Probate; 2) Get Letters Issued; 3) Apply for Tax ID Number (EIN); 4) Select the Bank; 5) Deposit Funds and Open Account. Opening an estate bank account is not difficult if you have the correct forms. It is a good idea to hire a registered legal document assistant to help you with the probate process so there will be no delays to be able to open an estate account during probate. To read the complete article, please click on the link How to Open an Estate Account During Probate This post appeared first on A People's Choice - Legal Documents - Without the Lawyers

Selling Personal Property During Probate

By |2019-11-06T08:08:44-08:00October 27th, 2019|

Sometimes, it is necessary to sell some of the decedent's assets during probate in order to pay the debts. Another reason to sell property during probate is because selling a property and dividing the proceeds among several heirs is much easier than having the heirs share the inherited asset. California’s Probate Code has different rules that govern how to sell property during probate. The difference is whether the court grants to personal representative limited authority or full authority. To read the complete article, please click on the link Selling Personal Property During Probate This post appeared first on A People's Choice - Legal Documents - Without the Lawyers

How to File Probate in Del Norte County

By |2019-09-15T16:18:59-07:00September 8th, 2019|

Do you need to file probate in Del Norte County? Contact A People’s Choice to learn more about the legal document preparation services we provide to pro se litigants. You don't need to hire an expensive probate attorney to file probate in Del Norte County. A People's Choice can help you complete the forms you need to start and complete the probate process, and save the estate thousands of dollars in legal fees. To read the complete article, please click on the link How to File Probate in Del Norte County This post appeared first on A People's Choice - Legal Documents - Without the Lawyers

How to File Emergency Probate in California  

By |2019-09-15T16:19:16-07:00September 8th, 2019|

Most people never face an emergency when going through the probate process. There are certain situations, however, that lead to probate emergencies and the need to file emergency probate. This special petition is known as a Petition for Letters of Special Administration. If the Petition is approved, the Court Clerk will issue Letters of Special Administration. Letters of Special Administration are temporary Letters of authority that can be approved by the Probate Judge for a specific purpose on an ex parte basis (without a hearing). To read the complete article, please click on the link How to File Emergency Probate in California   This post appeared first on A People's Choice - Legal Documents - Without the Lawyers

How to File Probate in Modoc County

By |2019-09-15T16:20:53-07:00September 7th, 2019|

If you live in Modoc County and are facing having to file probate, you may not be aware that you can file probate in Modoc County without hiring an attorney! Most large estates can be probated without an attorney. Attorneys charge expensive statutory fees to probate estates. A People's Choice has helped thousands of people file probate in California. People that use our self-help probate service avoid paying those expensive statutory attorney fees, saving the estate thousands of dollars. To read the complete article, please click on the link How to File Probate in Modoc County This post appeared first on A People's Choice - Legal Documents - Without the Lawyers

How to Object to a Petition for Probate

By |2019-09-15T16:21:13-07:00August 19th, 2019|

There are many reasons to formally object to a petition for probate. If you think that there is something incorrect in a will, you can file an objection at the beginning of the probate process.  You may want to object to the appointment of a specific person petitioning to be the estate administrator. Most people who file objections are family members of the deceased person. To read the complete article, please click on the link How to Object to a Petition for Probate This post appeared first on A People's Choice - Legal Documents - Without the Lawyers

Hiring a California Probate Paralegal

By |2019-09-15T16:21:36-07:00August 12th, 2019|

Probate is the process through which the court settles the financial affairs of a recently deceased person. The process can take 2-12 months, and most people do not need to hire a lawyer to get through it. Some people choose to hire an expensive lawyer and then work with the attorney's California probate paralegal. But there is another choice. Hiring a registered legal document assistant (LDA) for help with your probate forms is a better idea that will save the estate thousands of dollars! To read the complete article, please click on the link Hiring a California Probate Paralegal This post appeared first on A People's Choice - Legal Documents - Without the Lawyers

Creditor’s Claim vs. Administrative Expense in Probate

By |2019-09-15T16:21:54-07:00July 21st, 2019|

You have spent your own personal money in settling a decedent's estate. Do you file a creditor's claim or is the money you paid an administrative expense in probate? If you use your own monies to cover an administrative expense in probate, certain protocols exist to protect both you and the estate. You must be legally entitled to the compensation and correctly file to receive it. Failure in this could result in a much more complicated probate and even accusations that you are attempting to make an unreasonable "creditor claim." To read the complete article, please click on the link Creditor’s Claim vs. Administrative Expense in Probate This post appeared first on A People's Choice - Legal Documents - Without the Lawyers

When Do You Need a Probate Bond?

By |2019-09-15T16:22:14-07:00July 21st, 2019|

In California, the probate process often takes a long time. During the average 9 to 12 months of probate, someone must pay bills, sell assets when appropriate, and protect property from theft. The estate must trust that "someone," the executor, to handle the process wisely and well. In order to protect against mismanagement, you may need a probate bond. Learn about the options you may have as a personal representative of an estate. To read the complete article, please click on the link When Do You Need a Probate Bond? This post appeared first on A People's Choice - Legal Documents - Without the Lawyers

How to Resolve Mistakes Made by a Court Clerk

By |2019-09-15T16:22:36-07:00July 21st, 2019|

Sometimes, even the court system makes simple mistakes. Unfortunately, mistakes made by a court clerk, for example, can create serious difficulties. For example, receiving a $100,000 award in a judgment, but finding the clerk accidentally wrote in "$10,000" instead. How devastating! How can you fix this "slip of the pen" and receive the award to which you are entitled? Attempting to resolve mistakes made by a court clerk should be simple, but many people find it harder than they expect. A People's Choice can help you get those errors corrected in a swift, timely fashion. To read the complete article, please click on the link How to Resolve Mistakes Made by a Court Clerk This post appeared first on A People's Choice - Legal Documents - Without the Lawyers

How to File Probate in Colusa County

By |2019-09-15T16:22:50-07:00July 6th, 2019|

Contrary to popular belief, you don't need an attorney to file probate in Colusa County. Most people can complete the probate process without hiring an attorney. However, when you file probate in Colusa County, expect the process to take between 7-9 months to complete. In this regard, because of the many steps involved in probate, you definitely will need some professional legal help to complete the process. A People's Choice can help you file probate in Colusa County. Contact us today to find out more information on our probate legal document preparation services. To read the complete article, please click on the link How to File Probate in Colusa County This post appeared first on A People's Choice - Legal Documents - Without the Lawyers

How to Avoid Statutory Attorney Fees in Probate (California)

By |2019-09-15T16:23:02-07:00July 4th, 2019|

In California, attorneys charge statutory fees to probate an estate. However, statutory attorney fees in probate are avoidable. How do you avoid paying statutory fees when you file probate in California? First and foremost, consider hiring a legal document preparer to help you. At A People’s Choice, we have helped thousands of consumers just like you to complete a California probate for a fraction of the cost charged by lawyers! To read the complete article, please click on the link How to Avoid Statutory Attorney Fees in Probate (California) This post appeared first on A People's Choice - Legal Documents - Without the Lawyers

Steps to Get Letters Testamentary in Probate

By |2019-09-15T16:23:13-07:00July 3rd, 2019|

After someone dies in California, an estate may have to through probate. If the estate is large and the decedent had a Will, the first step is to get Letters Testamentary in probate. Probate in California involves many steps. Although probate is complicated, you will not likely need an attorney to handle probate in California. An experienced legal document preparer can help for most estates. To read the complete article, please click on the link Steps to Get Letters Testamentary in Probate This post appeared first on A People's Choice - Legal Documents - Without the Lawyers

When is Probate Required in California?

By |2019-09-15T16:23:36-07:00June 13th, 2019|

Probate is the court proceeding that transfers property from a deceased person to their heirs.  But when is probate required? Some estates do not require probate in order to be settled and distributed to the heirs. Instead, these estates may go through a small estate process instead. These small estate procedures are much faster and cheaper than probate. Unfortunately, not all estates have this option. To read the complete article, please click on the link When is Probate Required in California? This post appeared first on A People's Choice - Legal Documents - Without the Lawyers

The DE-111 Petition for Probate

By |2019-09-15T16:23:47-07:00May 11th, 2019|

On its face, the DE-111 petition for probate looks fairly simple. We often receive calls from people who wonder why they need to hire someone to prepare such a simple-looking document. Unfortunately, to file a DE-111 petition for probate you will need several different forms and attachments. Although the DE-111 appears, on its face, to be somewhat simple, the completed documents with the required special attachments can be complicated. Surprisingly, a properly completed Petition is typically 15-20 pages! To read the complete article, please click on the link The DE-111 Petition for Probate This post appeared first on A People's Choice - Legal Documents - Without the Lawyers

Get Emergency Letters of Special Administration in Probate

By |2019-05-27T16:34:08-07:00May 10th, 2019|

In a routine probate proceeding, the court will typically set the first probate hearing about six to eight weeks after the filing of the probate petition. Sometimes, there may be special circumstances where an administrator needs to be appointed immediately.  In this case, it is possible to ask the court for emergency Letters of Special Administration in Probate. These emergency Letters will give an individual temporary but immediate authority to act on behalf of the probate estate. To read the complete article, please click on the link Get Emergency Letters of Special Administration in Probate This post appeared first on A People's Choice - Legal Documents - Without the Lawyers

Compare Online Probate Services

By |2019-09-15T16:24:15-07:00April 28th, 2019|

Recently, there has been an increase in online DIY services for California probate and estate planning. These services vary greatly in what services are offered. With this in mind, they all have the same theme - offering people a cheaper way to file probate for a fee that avoids paying statutory fees and is considerably cheaper than hiring a probate attorney.  Services provided by online probate services vary from platform to platform.  Here is an overview of things to look for when you compare online probate services. To read the complete article, please click on the link Compare Online Probate Services This post appeared first on A People's Choice - Legal Documents - Without the Lawyers

When is Probate Necessary in California?

By |2019-09-15T16:26:36-07:00January 1st, 2019|

A formal probate proceeding and can be expensive and time-consuming. In this regard, California law provides for alternatives to formal probate that are easier and less expensive. It is often possible to avoid probate. So, when is probate necessary in California and are there way to avoid having to file probate? This article explains what you need to know. To read the complete article, please click on the link When is Probate Necessary in California? This post appeared first on A People's Choice - Legal Documents - Without the Lawyers

Understanding The Role of a Probate Referee

By |2019-09-15T16:26:36-07:00December 30th, 2018|

If you are settling an estate through the probate process, most likely you will need a probate referee. The role of a probate referee is to appraise property in the estate.  A probate referee is a professional, usually an attorney, a certified public accountant, or a person with several years of professional experience in [...] To read the complete article, please click on the link Understanding The Role of a Probate Referee This post appeared first on A People's Choice - Legal Documents - Without the Lawyers

Using a Non-Lawyer Probate Service in California to File Probate

By |2019-09-15T16:26:36-07:00December 29th, 2018|

Do you really need to hire an attorney to file probate? You might be surprised to learn that you don't need an attorney to file probate in California. In many situations, the estate can be settled without having to hire a lawyer using an experienced non-lawyer probate service. Here's why many are using the probate services of A People's Choice. To read the complete article, please click on the link Using a Non-Lawyer Probate Service in California to File Probate This post appeared first on A People's Choice - Legal Documents - Without the Lawyers

How to Get Letters of Administration in Probate

By |2018-12-18T03:34:46-08:00December 15th, 2018|

In order to get Letters of administration, a full probate is filed that requests the court to name as personal representative of the estate. The court issues Letters of Administration when there 1) is no will; 2) when there is a will, but the will doesn't name an executor; or 3) the named executor is deceased and there is no alternate person named to act. To read the complete article, please click on the link How to Get Letters of Administration in Probate This post appeared first on A People's Choice - Legal Documents - Without the Lawyers

How to Settle a Small Estate with Real Property Valued Under $166,250

By |2020-01-02T14:10:48-08:00December 10th, 2018|

When a person dies, their property needs to be distributed to their heirs. In the past, this has required filing full probate which, in Calfornia, is a lengthy and expensive procedure. Fortunately, however, California offers several lower-cost alternatives to probate and settling small estates. Here's what you need to know about how to settle a small estate with real property valued under $166,250 To read the complete article, please click on the link How to Settle a Small Estate with Real Property Valued Under $166,250 This post appeared first on A People's Choice - Legal Documents - Without the Lawyers

How to Settle Small Estate with Real Property Valued Under $55,425

By |2020-01-02T14:12:20-08:00December 10th, 2018|

Probate in California is an expensive and lengthy procedure. There are exceptions for small estates. This article explains how to settle a small estate with real property valued under $55,425 without a lawyer! To read the complete article, please click on the link How to Settle Small Estate with Real Property Valued Under $55,425 This post appeared first on A People's Choice - Legal Documents - Without the Lawyers

How to File Probate in Placer County

By |2018-12-15T06:56:44-08:00September 3rd, 2018|

Learn how to file probate in Placer county without a lawyer. Discover how the probate process works in Placer County, which Placer court handles probate. how to view probate examiner notes and contact a Placer County probate referee. To read the complete article, please click on the link How to File Probate in Placer County This post appeared first on A People's Choice - Legal Documents - Without the Lawyers

How to Deal With Creditors and Debts in California Probate

By |2018-12-15T06:58:24-08:00September 3rd, 2018|

California has specific laws and rules about the process required to deal with creditors and debts in California probate. It is the estate’s executor or appointed representative's responsibility to notify all creditors of the probate proceedings. This notification allows creditors to make and file formal claims against the probate estate. It is important to note that creditors and interested parties usually have a limited amount of time to file a claim. To read the complete article, please click on the link How to Deal With Creditors and Debts in California Probate This post appeared first on A People's Choice - Legal Documents - Without the Lawyers

Understanding the Definition of Common Probate Terms

By |2018-12-15T06:59:08-08:00August 4th, 2018|

There are many common probate terms used in California probate matters. Common probate terms and confusing legal words are often found on legal forms and used by the Judge during court hearings. We have compiled a list of such terms for you to familiarize yourself with through the probate process. To read the complete article, please click on the link Understanding the Definition of Common Probate Terms This post appeared first on A People's Choice - Legal Documents - Without the Lawyers

How to File Probate in Nevada County, California

By |2018-12-15T06:59:36-08:00July 15th, 2018|

Want to learn how to file probate in Nevada County? If you have done your research, you may have sticker shock at the statutory attorney fees allowed under California law. Imagine if there was a way to avoid paying attorneys fees and save thousands of dollars! Here's how... The post How to File Probate in Nevada County, California appeared first on A People's Choice.

How to Lodge a Will in California and File Probate

By |2018-12-15T07:00:46-08:00July 11th, 2018|

Most Executors have a hard time giving up possession of a decedent's original will. However, by law, the custodian of an original will must lodge the will with the Superior Court within 30 days of learning of the testator’s death. This is a statutory requirement under California Probate Code Section 8200. Keep in mind, the custodian can face legal penalties if they do not lodge a will in a timely fashion. The post How to Lodge a Will in California and File Probate appeared first on A People's Choice.

Discover Cheap Probate Options in California

By |2018-08-24T08:04:01-07:00May 19th, 2018|

Want to know a little known secret? Despite common belief, there are cheap probate options available in California. In fact, one of those options include filing for probate without an attorney. To be sure, this is not information most attorneys freely share. In fact, most attorneys will try to make potential clients feel fearful of filing probate without an attorney. The truth is, most estate executors are capable of completing the probate process without being represented by an attorney, with the proper help. The post Discover Cheap Probate Options in California appeared first on A People's Choice.

How to File Probate in Sierra County, California

By |2018-05-20T18:12:19-07:00May 18th, 2018|

A People’s Choice can help you file probate in Sierra County and save you money in the process. Did you know you don't have to hire an attorney to file probate in Sierra County? Yes, it is true! As a non-attorney legal document assistant, A People's Choice can help you draft the documents you need to probate your loved one’s estate. In fact, we can help you complete the entire probate process for a fraction of the cost an attorney will charge. Read on to learn more about how to file probate in Sierra County. The post How to File Probate in Sierra County, California appeared first on A People's Choice.

How to File Probate in Shasta County

By |2018-05-20T18:12:44-07:00May 18th, 2018|

Do you need to file probate in Shasta County? Save money and represent yourself! Contact A People’s Choice about our probate document preparation services. Our probate staff can help you file the forms you need to probate your loved one’s estate in California - from filing the petition to distributing the estate. The post How to File Probate in Shasta County appeared first on A People's Choice.

Best Ways to Avoid Probate in California

By |2018-05-20T18:13:10-07:00May 17th, 2018|

We all work hard during life and hope we'll be able to pass an inheritance to our children. California probate is expensive and time-consuming, taking between 8-12 months to complete. Here are the three best ways to avoid probate in California and to make sure your beneficiaries receive the most of your estate. The post Best Ways to Avoid Probate in California appeared first on A People's Choice.

How to File Probate in Plumas County

By |2018-05-20T18:13:29-07:00May 13th, 2018|

Do you need to file probate in Plumas County? First, you do not need to hire a probate attorney. Nowadays California offers other low-cost legal help options, allowing people like you to avoid burdensome attorney fees. This article provides tips that will help you file probate in Plumas County without a lawyer. The post How to File Probate in Plumas County appeared first on A People's Choice.

How to Prepare a Supplement to Clear Probate Notes

By |2018-05-13T09:32:46-07:00May 3rd, 2018|

It is not uncommon to have to prepare a supplement to clear probate notes. Probate notes are written by the probate examiner based on their review of a probate petition before the judge hears the case. These notes bring paperwork deficiencies, errors and questions to the judge's attention as well as provide the judge with an overview of the case on calendar.

How to File Probate in Trinity County

By |2018-05-13T09:35:40-07:00May 3rd, 2018|

Do you need to file probate in Trinity County? This article will help you learn how the California probate process works specifically in Trinity County and which Trinity court handles probate. Discover the benefits of using ProbatebyME.com / A People’s Choice to help you complete and file your probate documents to probate your loved one’s estate. Lastly, learn how using a non-attorney probate document preparer will save you thousands of dollars in legal fees.

How to File Probate in Tehama County

By |2018-05-13T09:37:15-07:00May 2nd, 2018|

Do you need to file probate in Tehama County, California? If you have shopped probate attorneys, you are probably in shock as to the amount of statutory fees they can charge to handle a routine probate case. Don't worry; there is another option. This article will provide some general information about the probate process in Tehama County, how to find a probate referee, where to publish your notification and other essential tips.

California Estate Planning (a Video)

By |2018-04-30T12:40:03-07:00April 30th, 2018|

This informative video explains the various options you have to plan your estate in California to make sure your assets are given to your intended beneficiaries. Learn how to avoid probate, what estate planning documents you need and how you can prepare them without hiring an expensive estate planning attorney.

Probate Calendar Notes and How to Fix Them

By |2018-05-13T09:39:50-07:00April 21st, 2018|

We often receive phone calls from people who are facing complicated probate examiner notes and have not idea how to fix them. In this regard, you need to understand where probate notes come from, what their purpose is, and who creates the notes.

Using a California Small Estate Probate Affidavit

By |2018-05-03T15:45:39-07:00April 20th, 2018|

Do you know the best way to transfer real and/or personal to heirs and beneficiaries in small estates so you can avoid probate? If you have personal and real property with a combined valued less than $50,000, California has a simple probate option by an affidavit which allows the heirs to transfer ownership without the necessity of a court hearing.

How to Fill Out Petition for Probate California

By |2020-01-19T17:00:04-08:00April 20th, 2018|

Are you trying to fill out a California Petition for Probate so you can settle an estate? Here are some basic instructions that will help you understand how to fill out a petition for probate California form DE-111 and start the California probate process.

California Probate Proceedings

By |2018-05-05T08:49:15-07:00April 20th, 2018|

California probate is complex. If you want to file probate without hiring an attorney, A People's Choice can help you navigate the complicated probate process of California probate proceedings. In this regard, learn how we can help you file probate in California without an attorney.

How to Represent Yourself in Probate Court in California

By |2018-05-05T11:13:10-07:00April 20th, 2018|

People are often shocked when the find out what attorneys charge to handle a straightforward, uncontested California case. In this regard, they seek out whether or not it is possible to represent yourself in probate court in California. This article explains why you do not need to hire an expensive lawyer to file probate in California, as well as provides options you have to represent yourself in the probate case. Learn how A People's Choice can prepare all necessary paperwork required to complete the probate case so the estate can avoid paying statutory fees.

California Simplified Probate Procedures Allow Transfer of Real Property

By |2018-05-05T11:23:48-07:00April 20th, 2018|

Not every estate in California requires filing probate. For example, there are several alternatives and more simplified processes that allow beneficiaries to transfer real property valued less than $150,000. These proceedings can typically be completed between 1-3 months rather than 8-12 months as with a full probate proceeding.

The Probate Process in California

By |2018-05-05T11:39:14-07:00April 20th, 2018|

How does a decedent's estate get administered after someone dies? First, the probate process in California cannot be started until after someone has died. Although full probate can be filed immediately, the smaller estate alternative proceedings require waiting for a period of time - from 40 days to 6 months, before they can be filed.

Steps for Filing Probate in California

By |2018-05-05T11:46:36-07:00April 20th, 2018|

There are many steps required to complete a California probate case. For most people, the steps for filing probate in California can be overwhelming. First, it is essential to recognize that probate in California can take 8-12 months or longer. Once the probate is filed, assets must be inventoried and valued. A notice must be given to interested parties, creditor claims rejected or approved, and debts and taxes paid. Read this article for a better understanding of the steps for filing probate in California.

Filing a California Heggstad Petition

By |2018-05-05T11:55:04-07:00April 18th, 2018|

The ability to file a Heggstad Petition eliminates the need for many estates to go through a California probate. But what exactly is a Heggstad Petition and who and when can you use the Heggstad process? The Heggstad process is used to transfer a decedent's assets into their living trust after they die, when those assets were not properly put into their trust before they died.

What are Letters Testamentary?

By |2018-04-19T20:28:08-07:00April 18th, 2018|

To settle a California estate, the probate court will appoint someone to act as the estate's personal representative. This person is usually named in a will, if there was a will. If there was no will, the heirs can decide who will petition to represent the estate. Once someone has been appointed by the court to act as the personal representative, the Court Clerk will issue Letters. These Letters serve as a type of "driver's license" for the personal representative to be able to act on behalf of the decedent and decedent's estate. A California court will only issue Letters in full probate cases, not small estate proceedings.

California Probate Without a Will

By |2018-05-05T12:13:51-07:00April 18th, 2018|

When a person passes away without a will, filing a California probate case is not any more complicated than when a person dies with a will. What is important to understand, however, is that the estate will be distributed under California laws of intestate succession rather than to those loved ones the decedent may have wanted.

Probate Court in California

By |2018-05-05T14:12:55-07:00April 18th, 2018|

California courts are often segregated into various division, with each division responsible to handle different types of legal proceedings. In general, the Probate Court in California handles a variety of different cases including guardianship, conservatorship, trust administration and probate.

California Probate Forms

By |2018-05-05T14:22:25-07:00April 18th, 2018|

There are many different types of California probate forms because there are several different types of probate procedures. Keep in mind, however, that the simplicity of the Judicial Council probate forms can be deceiving. Unfortunately, the forms, as they are written, are not all-inclusive of what is needed by the court to file probate.

What is a Probate Referee in California?

By |2018-05-06T18:54:17-07:00April 18th, 2018|

If you are faced with filing probate in California, most certainly you will find the need to interact with a probate referee. Almost every California probate case has some non-case assets that will need to be valued. In this regard, the job of the probate referee is to evaluate and appraise these assets as of the date of death of the decedent.

Probating A Lost Will in California

By |2018-05-05T14:36:12-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Are you faced with probating a lost will in California? When probating a lost will in California, the personal representative must be able to give the court enough evidence to show that that the testator did not intend to revoke his/her will. In addition, a copy of the will must be presented to the court.

California Probate Checklist

By |2018-04-18T23:20:35-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Filing a California probate proceeding without an attorney is not an easy task. It is possible, however, with the proper help of a professional registered legal document assistant’s office such as A People’s Choice. A People’s Choice prepares all the routine documents to allow people to successfully complete a California probate without having to hire [...] The post California Probate Checklist appeared first on A People's Choice.

Helping People Represent Themselves in Legal Matters

By |2018-05-06T14:14:34-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Welcome to our legal blog devoted to people interested in saving money handling various legal matters! Our entire website is designed to ease common fears people have about the California legal system and give them a variety of tools to enable them to handle their legal issues without having to hire a lawyer. Our blog is a great resource for information and news about a variety of common legal matters and topics of interest.

How to Avoid Probate in California

By |2018-05-06T14:20:35-07:00April 18th, 2018|

You may be wondering how you can avoid probate in California when you pass away. A person can avoid probate in California if he or she plans ahead. It is true that some small estates are able to avoid probate because there are very few assets to administer. However, more extensive estates can avoid probate with pre-planning.

When Your Spouse Dies

By |2018-05-06T14:28:11-07:00April 18th, 2018|

It can be life-changing when your spouse dies. There are usually many details that are required to settle a deceased spouse's estate, from sharing the sad news of their spouse's passing, making arrangements for the funeral and assessing finances. When your spouse dies, you may need to change your lifestyle due to less money coming in every month. In some situations, it may be necessary to file a spousal property petition to transfer assets that were only in the decedent's name.

Getting Letters of Administration in California

By |2018-05-06T14:31:48-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Someone has passed away, and the bank has told you that you need to get Letters of Administration. What does this mean? When a person passes away, there are many different ways to settle their estate. Banks often tell people they need to get Letters of Administration when, in fact, they are other options available to the heirs under California law to distribute small estates.

When You Die Without A Will in California

By |2018-05-06T19:00:05-07:00April 18th, 2018|

What could happen to your estate when you die without a will in California? A common misconception is that your estate will go to the State of California. This is not true. When you die without a will in California, depending on the size of the estate, the decedent’s estate may need to be probated. Unfortunately, if you do not have a will, California intestate succession laws will determine what surviving relatives of the decednet will receive his/her property and what percentage of the estate they will receive.

Tips for Executors of Estates

By |2018-05-08T14:53:29-07:00April 18th, 2018|

If you have been appointed to act as the Executor of an Estate, it is important to understand your responsibilities. Although being executor of an estate may initially seem overwhelming for some people, it really just requires responsibility and thoroughness. You can find many great resources on the internet that provide tips for executors of estates. This article covers some important tips that will help you with the task of being an Executor.

Attorney Fees in Probate

By |2018-05-08T14:52:23-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Attorney fees in probate can drastically cut into someone's inheritance. Unfortunately, in California, attorneys fees in probate are calculated on the gross value of the estate. In this regard, no consideration is given to estates that also have a substantial amount of debt. The calculation of attorney fees in probate do not factor in any existing estate debt. his article discusses attorneys fees in probate and offers suggestions of ways to minimize attorneys fees in probate, or eliminate them entirely.

Disadvantages of Simplified Probate Alternatives

By |2018-05-08T14:51:11-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Using one of the simplified probate alternatives may, at first glance, appear to be a great way to settle an estate for a fraction of the cost of full probate. However, it is essential to recognize that there are disadvantages of simplified probate alternatives that are often unknown to heirs, beneficiaries and estate personal representatives. This article reviews the different options of settling estates using simplified probate alternatives and covers some of the advantages and disadvantages of these processes.

Ways to Avoid Probate in California

By |2018-05-08T14:50:19-07:00April 18th, 2018|

With proper pre-death estate planning, there are many ways to avoid probate in California. A personal representative can often utilize these simple estate planning tools without having to hire an attorney! This article will review the many different ways to avoid probate in California.

California Intestate Succession

By |2018-05-08T14:49:19-07:00April 18th, 2018|

If a person dies without having a valid Will, their estate will be distributed to their heirs under California intesate laws. This means that the property you worked hard for during your lifetime may end up in the hands of family members that you did not want. This article will show you exactly who is entitled to receive an estate under California intestate succession laws.

Probate Cost Savings Calculator

By |2018-05-08T14:48:19-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Everyone likes to save money! You may, however, be stunned at the amount of money you will save using non-attorney probate services instead of hiring an expensive attorney. In this regard, using our service will definitely save the estate thousands of dollars! Our online probate calculator will enable you to calculate the California statutory attorney fees for a particular probate estate and see precisely how much you will save, based on the value of your estate.

Understanding Probate Examiner Probate Notes

By |2018-05-08T14:47:31-07:00April 18th, 2018|

If you are faced with filing full probate, you will undoubtedly, at some point in time, be faced with accessing probate examiner notes. To understand what probate examiner notes are, you first must understand the steps involved in the California probate process. Understanding the process and the steps will allow you to follow proper procedures which, in turn, will reduce the number of deficiencies identified by the probate examiner regarding paperwork that you have filed in the probate case.

California Probate Inventory and Appraisal Process

By |2018-05-08T15:00:33-07:00April 18th, 2018|

As one of the steps in full probate as well as the simplified probate proceedings, the personal representative must inventory the assets and hire a probate referee to value them. Non-cash assets to not need valuation but other assets such as stock, bonds, real property, jewelry, household goods and the like will need valuation by the probate referee. This article will give you a better understanding of the California probate inventory and appraisal process.

Access Safe Deposit Box After Death of Loved One

By |2018-05-08T15:07:59-07:00April 18th, 2018|

What do you do when the decedent held a safe deposit box, but no one else has access to the box itself. This is a common situation, and we often receive phone calls from people asking how they can access the safe deposit box after death of a family member. It is common knowledge that people use safe deposit boxes to store their important documents. This article will explain what procedures you have available to access a safe deposit box, particularly if the decedent has used the box to store will and/or trust.

Probate Form 13100 Affidavit For Small Estates

By |2018-05-08T16:22:12-07:00April 18th, 2018|

California law allows for a simple process to transfer personal property to the decedent’s successors without having to go through a formal probate court process. California Probate Code section 13100-13116, allows the decedent's beneficiaries to execute a Probate Form 13100 Affidavit for the Collection of Personal Property. This document is also called also called Small Estate Affidavit. This article provides important information about how and when beneficiaries can use Probate Form 13100 to settle small estates.

What a Probate Lawyer in California Won’t Tell You

By |2018-05-08T16:25:01-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Do you need to hire a probate lawyer in California do probate an estate. If you ask a probate lawyer they will make you believe you do. This is not true and we have helped thousands of family members successfully complete probate without having to hire a probate lawyer. This article explains what a probate lawyer in California won't tell you about how you can save money using a probate legal document assistant.

Hiring an Attorney – The Pros and Cons

By |2018-05-08T16:37:06-07:00April 18th, 2018|

If you are thinking about hiring an attorney to handle your probate case, it is important to understand the pros and cons of doing so. It is true that legal matters in California can appear complex, but California does offer other options for people to successfully navigate the court system without having to hire an attorney. This article will explain the pros and cons of hiring an attorney.

File Probate in San Diego County

By |2018-05-08T16:49:20-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Do you need to file probate in San Diego County? If so, we recommend you consider hiring a non-attorney probate service like ProbatebyME/A People's Choice to help you through the probate process which will help you complete probate without breaking the bank. In this regard, using our probate service is a low-cost alternative to high-cost attorneys. The San Diego Superior Court is well-known for it many unique rules and procedures that are uniquely different from the usual probate process. In this regard, this article will explain how to file probate in San Diego County.

File Probate in Ventura County

By |2018-05-08T16:51:48-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Are you looking to file probate in Ventura County? As you probably have discovered, hiring a Ventura County probate attorney is not cheap. This is because probate attorneys throughout California can charge fees for their probate services based on a California statutory attorney fee schedule. This article provides insight and tips about how to file probate in Ventura County without having to hire a lawyer.

Do I Need to Hire an Attorney?

By |2018-05-08T16:59:54-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Are you looking for an inexpensive option to handle a legal procedure? If so, you may be asking yourself "do I need to hire an attorney?" For many, hiring an attorney is simply a personal decision. There are many legal proceedings in California that a layperson can easily handle with a little professional help from a legal document assistant. This article will review the question, "Do I need to hire an attorney" and provide you with a better insight into considerations that will help you decide what is best for you.

File Probate in Los Angeles County

By |2018-05-08T17:21:56-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Do you need to file probate in Los Angeles County? This article will give you tips and outline important details you should be aware of if you are considering filing probate in Los Angeles County. As you have probably already discovered, hiring a Los Angeles probate attorney is not cheap. This is because California's statutory attorney fee schedule prescribes the amount probate attorneys are allowed to charge when handling a probate case. As a result, probate attorney fees for a small estate can easily be more than $10,000 to $20,000. Read this article to learn more.

Handling Creditor Claims in Probate

By |2018-04-18T23:30:29-07:00April 18th, 2018|

The Letters issued by the Court grant authority to the Personal Representative to administer a decedent's estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. The court can grant the representative Full or Limited Authority. This authority includes a wide range of rights and responsibilities, one of which is handling creditor claims in probate. How to [...] The post Handling Creditor Claims in Probate appeared first on A People's Choice.

How to Release Money From Blocked Account

By |2018-04-19T02:22:05-07:00April 18th, 2018|

A court order is needed to block a bank account. A blocked account is usually created to protect a money judgment awarded to minors and adults who have been appointed a guardian or conservator. Conversely, a court order is also required to release money from blocked account. A withdrawal from a blocked account is only [...] The post How to Release Money From Blocked Account appeared first on A People's Choice.

How to Get an Apostille in California

By |2018-04-19T02:22:15-07:00April 18th, 2018|

You have been told you need to get an apostille in California. Like many others, you may not know what that is or what it means. The literal meaning of an apostille is certification. The word stems from the Hague Convention, a treaty between over 100 countries. This treaty allows documents issued in one country to [...] The post How to Get an Apostille in California appeared first on A People's Choice.

Steps to Getting a Bond in Probate  

By |2018-04-18T23:31:32-07:00April 18th, 2018|

When a person passes away, and leaves behind a will, the estate’s executor will need to probate the will. The administration of the will ensures the decedent’s debts are paid prior to beneficiaries receiving their inheritance. The fiduciary duties of the executor may require getting a bond in probate.When a will is admitted into probate, [...] The post Steps to Getting a Bond in Probate   appeared first on A People's Choice.

When a Minor Child Inherits Property

By |2018-04-18T23:31:47-07:00April 18th, 2018|

It is not uncommon for a minor child to be named as a beneficiary in a will. In California, minor children are not allowed to inherit large sums of money outright. When a minor child inherits property, a guardian of the child’s estate must be appointed until the child turns 18-years-old or is deemed mature [...] The post When a Minor Child Inherits Property appeared first on A People's Choice.

File Probate in San Bernardino County

By |2018-04-18T23:32:21-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Do you need help to file probate in San Bernardino County? As you probably have discovered in your research, hiring a San Bernardino County probate attorney is very expensive. Attorneys in San Bernardino County and other counties in California are able to charge probate fees based on a set fee scale. These fees are outlined [...] The post File Probate in San Bernardino County appeared first on A People's Choice.

File Probate in Orange County

By |2018-04-18T23:32:35-07:00April 18th, 2018|

At A People’s Choice, we can help you file probate in Orange County. Hiring an Orange County probate attorney is expensive. This is in large part due to the statutory fees Orange County probate attorneys can charge for high valued estates. Attorneys are not paid based on how complex the probate case is, but rather [...] The post File Probate in Orange County appeared first on A People's Choice.

Reverse Mortgage and Probate in California

By |2018-04-18T23:33:03-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Are you curious how a reverse mortgage is handled in probate? Do you know what a reverse mortgage is? Reverse mortgages are like traditional mortgages. If the homeowner dies, the reverse mortgage becomes due and payable in full. As a result, the estate beneficiaries must act promptly to pay off the loan amount to prevent [...] The post Reverse Mortgage and Probate in California appeared first on A People's Choice.

When a Minor Inherits Property in California Probate

By |2018-04-18T23:33:20-07:00April 18th, 2018|

It is not uncommon for a minor to inherit property in California probate. Minors usually inherit property in probate when the decedent dies unexpectedly or when assets are not put into a trust properly. Under California law, when a minor inherits property or a large sum of money, an estate guardian must be appointed. Upon [...] The post When a Minor Inherits Property in California Probate appeared first on A People's Choice.

Probate an Estate with Lost Will

By |2018-04-19T00:01:22-07:00April 18th, 2018|

If you have to probate an estate with lost will in California, it is not an easy task. If a will is lost, specific facts, circumstances, and state law will decide which family members inherit the decedent’s assets. For example, if the will was revoked prior to the decedent’s death, and a new will did [...] The post Probate an Estate with Lost Will appeared first on A People's Choice.

Tips on Price Shopping For Legal Services

By |2018-04-19T17:26:06-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Price shopping for legal services is often frowned upon by attorneys. Most attorneys refuse to provide quotes for legal services when they believe a prospective client is price shopping. Most people don’t realize, however, that with the help of a legal document preparer they can get favorable legal results without spending thousands of dollars. Read [...] The post Tips on Price Shopping For Legal Services appeared first on A People's Choice.

LDAs Open the Door to Affordable Legal Services

By |2018-04-19T17:26:24-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Legal document assistants (also known as LDAs) open the door to affordable legal services by providing low-cost self-help document preparation service to California residents. For over 37 years, A People's Choice has helped individuals represent themselves in probate, divorce, civil and real property matters and more. The post LDAs Open the Door to Affordable Legal Services appeared first on A People's Choice.

Notice Requirements in Probate

By |2018-04-18T23:34:26-07:00April 18th, 2018|

In California, when probating a will, all interested parties must be notified. The notice requirements in probate vary from case to case but basically include all interested parties such as beneficiaries, heirs, and the estate’s creditors. In addition, special notice may be required to various governmental agencies such as the Department of Healthcare Services and [...] The post Notice Requirements in Probate appeared first on A People's Choice.

How to Close a Probate Estate in California

By |2018-04-18T23:34:36-07:00April 18th, 2018|

There are many steps in the California probate process, the last of which is closing the probate case. In order to close a probate estate in California, the appointed personal representative must file a petition with the probate court which reports everything he/she has done in regards to the estate. The personal representative must file [...] The post How to Close a Probate Estate in California appeared first on A People's Choice.

File Probate in Riverside County

By |2018-04-18T23:34:48-07:00April 18th, 2018|

If you need to file probate in Riverside County, A People’s Choice can help you. Probate attorneys in Riverside County are expensive. This is due to the fact that California law allows attorneys in Riverside County and elsewhere to charge statutory fees for all estates that require administration through a full probate. Unfortunately, these statutory [...] The post File Probate in Riverside County appeared first on A People's Choice.

Common Errors in California Probate

By |2018-04-18T23:34:58-07:00April 18th, 2018|

It is common for people to make errors when attempting to probate their loved one’s estate. A People’s Choice recommends having a professional legal document preparer draft all probate documents to make sure the paperwork is accurate and properly completed. Below is an overview of the common errors in California probate that can easily be [...] The post Common Errors in California Probate appeared first on A People's Choice.

Multi-State Probate | California Ancillary Probate

By |2018-04-18T23:35:08-07:00April 18th, 2018|

A People’s Choice has worked with many clients who own real estate in multiple states. This may include a second home, a vacation home or property rentals. Multiple properties usually do not have an adverse effect on the probate process; however, if a person passes away with property in more than one state, this often [...] The post Multi-State Probate | California Ancillary Probate appeared first on A People's Choice.

How to Complete Probate Inventory and Appraisal

By |2018-04-18T23:35:34-07:00April 18th, 2018|

When an estate is probated, the executor or personal representative must complete an Inventory and Appraisal. This involves a complete listing of estate assets as of the decedent's date of death. We often receive calls from individuals about how to complete probate inventory and appraisal forms. Below is a brief overview on how to complete [...] The post How to Complete Probate Inventory and Appraisal appeared first on A People's Choice.

Reasons to Have a Trust as Part of Your Estate Plan

By |2018-04-19T17:26:34-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Having a trust isn’t only for the rich and famous. A trust can help you manage your assets while living as well as avoid probate upon your death. There are many financial and privacy benefits associated with trusts. Read on to learn about the many reasons to have a trust. What [...] The post Reasons to Have a Trust as Part of Your Estate Plan appeared first on A People's Choice.

How to File Probate in California

By |2018-04-18T23:43:12-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Losing a love one can be devastating. While most families grieve their loss, those left behind must also figure out what to do with their loved one’s estate. To distribute assets of a deceased person’s estate to his/her loved ones, a petition for probate must be filed with California court (if assets are held outside [...] The post How to File Probate in California appeared first on A People's Choice.

How to File Probate in Kern County

By |2018-04-18T23:43:12-07:00April 18th, 2018|

If you need to file probate in Kern County, contact A People’s Choice for help. Our company has over 35 years of experience helping people just like you successfully complete probate in Kern County. We can help you save the beneficiaries and the estate thousands of dollars in doing so. As you have probably discovered, [...] The post How to File Probate in Kern County appeared first on A People's Choice.

File Probate in Santa Barbara County

By |2018-04-18T23:36:10-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Do you need to file probate in Santa Barbara County? At A People’s Choice, we can help you file a Santa Barbara County probate and save the estate thousands of dollars in the process. You have probably discovered that hiring a Santa Barbara probate attorney is very expensive. This is in large part due to [...] The post File Probate in Santa Barbara County appeared first on A People's Choice.

Cheap Probate Options in California

By |2018-04-19T17:27:24-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Despite common belief, you do not have to hire an attorney to probate an estate in California. Most estate executors or administrators often believe they are not capable of probating an estate without legal representation by a probate attorney. This is simply not true. Unless estate assets are in controversy with family members or creditors, [...] The post Cheap Probate Options in California appeared first on A People's Choice.

Probate Attorney Alternatives in California

By |2018-04-18T23:36:46-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Probating an estate may feel overwhelming at times and can be very expensive using an attorney. From completing all the probate forms to making court appearances, most people consider hiring an attorney to handle their probate matters. Though it may be convenient to hire an attorney, hiring one is not required under California’s probate laws. [...] The post Probate Attorney Alternatives in California appeared first on A People's Choice.

Fees and Costs to Probate in California

By |2018-04-18T23:37:04-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Potential probate clients who phone our office often ask "what are the costs to probate in California?" Not surprising, the answer will depend on who you choose to help you with the process. Most lawyers charge by the hour or collect a flat fee when representing clients. However, when filing a  California probate, statutory provisions [...] The post Fees and Costs to Probate in California appeared first on A People's Choice.

Probate vs Heggstad – When Filing Probate is Better

By |2018-04-18T23:37:20-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Your loved one has passed and they had a living trust. Unfortunately you learn that one of their real estate properties was not under the name of the trust. You are faced with the decision - file a probate vs Heggstad petition. You may be surprised to learn that sometimes filling probate may be better [...] The post Probate vs Heggstad – When Filing Probate is Better appeared first on A People's Choice.

File Probate in Imperial County

By |2018-04-18T23:45:27-07:00April 18th, 2018|

It is a fairly straightforward process to file probate in Imperial County. More importantly, despite common beliefs, you do not have to hire an attorney to file probate in Imperial County.  From filing the petition, to submitting documents to the probate examiner, probating an estate does not require a person to have a substantial legal [...] The post File Probate in Imperial County appeared first on A People's Choice.

File Probate in San Luis Obispo County

By |2018-04-18T23:45:52-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Did you know that you do not have to hire an attorney to file probate in San Luis Obispo County? At A People’s Choice, we have helped many California residents file probate without charging hefty legal fees. Hiring a San Luis Obispo County probate attorney is expensive and could potentially result in beneficiaries receiving little [...] The post File Probate in San Luis Obispo County appeared first on A People's Choice.

File Probate in Monterey County

By |2018-04-18T23:46:00-07:00April 18th, 2018|

At A People's Choice, we can help you file your Monterey County probate matter at an affordable price. Many people are unaware that it is not necessary to hire a lawyer to file probate in Monterey County. Nowadays, probate attorneys are becoming somewhat unnecessary in estates where the heirs and beneficiaries are in agreement and [...] The post File Probate in Monterey County appeared first on A People's Choice.

California Probate Code 850 Petition

By |2018-04-19T19:11:09-07:00April 18th, 2018|

A California Probate Code 850 Petition allows litigants to seek the transfer of real property into or out of a trust. This type of application is commonly called a Heggstad Petition. If the decedent failed to transfer all of his/her assets into a trust before dying, a California Probate Code 850 Petition (or Heggstad petition) [...] The post California Probate Code 850 Petition appeared first on A People's Choice.

File Probate in Kings County California

By |2018-04-18T23:46:09-07:00April 18th, 2018|

If you need to file probate in Kings County, this article will answer many questions that pertain to probate cases filed in this court. First, the Kings County Superior Court does not have a separate probate division. As a result, all probate cases are filed through the civil division of the Kings County Superior Court [...] The post File Probate in Kings County California appeared first on A People's Choice.

How to File Probate in Fresno County

By |2018-04-18T23:43:12-07:00April 18th, 2018|

If you need to file probate in Fresno County, you should consider hiring the services of an experienced probate legal document service. It is not extremely complicated to file probate in Fresno County, however it is a long process with many steps extending over 7 to 12 months. With that in mind, probate is a [...] The post How to File Probate in Fresno County appeared first on A People's Choice.

File Probate in Madera County

By |2018-04-18T23:41:18-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Do you need to file probate in Madera County? If you have shopped probate attorneys, you are probably shocked at the prices attorneys charge. In contrast, did you know you don't have to hire an attorney to file probate in Madera County? Contrary to popular belief, and with the help of an experienced legal document [...] The post File Probate in Madera County appeared first on A People's Choice.

File Probate in Tulare County

By |2018-04-18T23:41:12-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Do you need to file probate in Tulare County? Contrary to popular belief, you do not need to hire an attorney to probate an estate. Most people can work with an experienced legal document preparer to probate an estate. A legal document preparer can help you complete all the required forms to complete your Tulare [...] The post File Probate in Tulare County appeared first on A People's Choice.

How to File Probate in Inyo County

By |2018-04-18T23:43:12-07:00April 18th, 2018|

If you have found this article, you are probably looking for help to file probate in Inyo County. In your quest, you may have discovered that hiring an Inyo County probate lawyer is very expensive! Inyo County lawyers are allowed to charge probate fees based on a California statutory attorney fee schedule.  Furthermore, statutory fees [...] The post How to File Probate in Inyo County appeared first on A People's Choice.

File Probate in Santa Clara County

By |2018-04-18T23:40:57-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Looking to file probate in Santa Clara County? This article will provide valuable tips to help you in this process. Simple Probate Overview Probate consists of the court supervised process that legally transfers title of property from an estate of the deceased to his/her beneficiaries. Keep in mind, however, that not all property, however, has [...] The post File Probate in Santa Clara County appeared first on A People's Choice.

Common Probate Words and Terms

By |2018-04-19T17:28:46-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Understanding probate words and terms is not easy for non-legal professionals. Most forms are written in legalese in which some lawyers don’t even understand. This article will help you understand common probate words and terms. Keep it as a handy reference guide when you come across a probate word or term you have not seen before. [...] The post Common Probate Words and Terms appeared first on A People's Choice.

File Probate in Merced County

By |2018-04-18T23:40:48-07:00April 18th, 2018|

If a decedent lived in Merced County or owned real property in Merced County, you may find yourself facing having to file probate in Merced County. Since the probate process varies from county to county, this article will give you useful tips to file probate in Merced County.  Fortunately, you do not have to hire [...] The post File Probate in Merced County appeared first on A People's Choice.

Handling Estate Creditors and Probate Claims

By |2018-04-18T23:39:50-07:00April 18th, 2018|

One aspect of the California probate process is dealing with estate creditors and probate claims. First and foremost, California has specific laws on probate procedures including how estate creditors and probate claims are to be paid. The estate’s representative (executor or administrator) must notify all interested parties that the decedent has passed away so monetary [...] The post Handling Estate Creditors and Probate Claims appeared first on A People's Choice.

File Probate in Santa Cruz County

By |2018-04-18T23:40:01-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Do you need to file probate in Santa Cruz County? A People’s Choice can help you fill out the forms you need to file for probate in Santa Cruz County. Despite common myths, you do not need to hire an attorney to probate an estate in California. To begin with, hiring a Santa Cruz probate [...] The post File Probate in Santa Cruz County appeared first on A People's Choice.

File Probate in Tuolumne County

By |2018-04-18T23:40:29-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Do you need to file probate in Tuolumne County? Review our helpful tips below to get started. Fortunately, you do not have to hire an attorney to file probate in Tuolumne County. This article will explain how you can avoid paying high statutory attorney fees by using a legal document preparation service. [...] The post File Probate in Tuolumne County appeared first on A People's Choice.

How to File Probate in Stanislaus County

By |2018-04-18T23:43:12-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Would you like to file probate in Stanislaus County? This article provides helpful tips in doing so. Contact us for more information about how to file probate in Stanislaus County. Overview of Probate in Stanislaus CountyProbate courts oversee the legal transfer and the administration of property of minors, deceased, and physically or mentally disabled individuals. [...] The post How to File Probate in Stanislaus County appeared first on A People's Choice.

How to File Probate in Mono County Without an Attorney

By |2018-04-19T00:01:40-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Learn how to file probate in Mono county without a lawyer. Discover tips on how to find a mono probate referee, where to locate mono county local rules for probate cases and more! The post How to File Probate in Mono County Without an Attorney appeared first on A People's Choice.

Trust or Will – What Estate Planning Tool is Best for You?

By |2018-04-19T00:01:59-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Creating an estate plan with a trust or will will make sure your wishes are followed and your family is taken care of after your death. These estate planning tools can help protect your assets and limit your tax liabilities. The post Trust or Will – What Estate Planning Tool is Best for You? appeared first on A People's Choice.

How to File Probate in San Joaquin County Without a Lawyer

By |2018-04-19T00:02:22-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Do you need to file probate in San Joaquin County? Are you shocked to find out how expensive to file probate in San Joaquin County through a probate attorney? Don't despair as there is another low-cost option that might pleasantly surprise you. Probate involves the court supervised process of paying a deceased person’s debts and [...] The post How to File Probate in San Joaquin County Without a Lawyer appeared first on A People's Choice.

How to File Probate in Calaveras County

By |2018-04-19T00:02:31-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Learn how to file probate in Calaveras county without a lawyer! Discover how the probate process works in Calaveras County and where to file for probate. The post How to File Probate in Calaveras County appeared first on A People's Choice.

How to File Probate in San Mateo County

By |2018-04-19T00:02:39-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Learn how to file probate in San Mateo county without a lawyer. Discover how the probate process works in San Mateo County and other money savings probate tips! The post How to File Probate in San Mateo County appeared first on A People's Choice.

File Probate in Alameda County

By |2018-04-18T23:47:11-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Do you need to file probate in Alameda County? You won't need to hire an attorney to file an Alameda probate with these important resources to guide you! The post File Probate in Alameda County appeared first on A People's Choice.

California Probate Contests and Estate Litigation

By |2018-04-18T23:47:31-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Learn the common warning signs of probate contests and estate litigation include sibling rivalry, a decedent with multiple marriages, and quarrelsome families. Knowing the signs and how to deal with them may avoid unnecessary litigation and estate disputes. The post California Probate Contests and Estate Litigation appeared first on A People's Choice.

How to File Probate in Siskiyou County

By |2018-04-18T23:43:13-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Learn how to file probate in Siskiyou county without a lawyer. Find out which Siskiyou court handles probate, the steps to file probate in Siskiyou County, how to contact the Siskiyou County probate referee's office, where to locate probate rules, and the importance of the Siskiyou County probate examiner's office. The post How to File Probate in Siskiyou County appeared first on A People's Choice.

How to File Probate in Alpine County

By |2018-04-18T23:43:13-07:00April 18th, 2018|

You do not need to hire an attorney to file probate in Alpine County, California. Most probate attorneys charge large statutory fees resulting in beneficiaries inheriting next to nothing from the decedent. This article will give you tips on how to file probate in Alpine County without hiring a lawyer! The post How to File Probate in Alpine County appeared first on A People's Choice.

How to Sell Real Property During Probate in California

By |2018-04-18T23:47:55-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Do you need help to sell real property during probate in California?A People’s Choice can prepare all required documents and notices to sell real property during probate. without relying on the expertise of an attorney. Read on to learn more about how to sell real property during probate in California. The post How to Sell Real Property During Probate in California appeared first on A People's Choice.

What is Ancillary Probate in California?

By |2018-04-18T23:49:01-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Ancillary probate in California is required if a person lives out-of-state but owns real property in California. Ancillary probate can be filed in California in the county where the decedent's real property is. The local California court can then appoint a Personal Representative to administer the assets in the state. The post What is Ancillary Probate in California? appeared first on A People's Choice.

Facts to Know About California Inheritance Laws

By |2018-04-19T19:39:58-07:00April 18th, 2018|

California inheritance laws also known as intestate succession laws, outline how the decedent's property passes to his/her immediate family members or other heirs down the line of genealogy. In other words, if you don't have a Will or estate plan, California inheritance laws determine who gets what when you die. The post Facts to Know About California Inheritance Laws appeared first on A People's Choice.

How to File Probate in Yuba County

By |2018-04-18T23:49:42-07:00April 18th, 2018|

The process required to file probate in Yuba County may seem like a daunting task, but most people can do so successfully without the assistance of an attorney. Keep in mind, in California, not all estates have to go through the probate process. Learn affordable tips on how to file probate in Yuba County, California. The post How to File Probate in Yuba County appeared first on A People's Choice.

How to File Probate in Yolo County

By |2018-04-18T23:43:13-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Probating your loved one's estate often causes families to face many hurdles. For example, sometimes a decedent may own real property in multiple states or may have a reverse mortgage. In reality, however, when you file probate in Yolo County, it's quite procedural, and most uncontested probates follow the same path. The post How to File Probate in Yolo County appeared first on A People's Choice.

File Probate in San Francisco County

By |2018-04-18T23:49:56-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Would you like to file for probate in San Francisco County? Did you know you can file probate in San Francisco county without hiring an expensive attorney? It's true! With this in mind, representing yourself in probate will save the estate literally thousands of dollars as compared to hiring an attorney. Here's how... The post File Probate in San Francisco County appeared first on A People's Choice.

How to File Probate in Solano County

By |2018-04-18T23:50:05-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Need to file probate in Solano County? Did you know you can file probate in Solano County without having to hire an attorney? Contact A People’s Choice for more information about the full-service, non-attorney probate services we provide that allows people to file probate in Solano County without a lawyer. The post How to File Probate in Solano County appeared first on A People's Choice.

How to File Probate in Marin County

By |2018-04-18T23:50:15-07:00April 18th, 2018|

There are three ways to file probate in Marin County - hire an expensive attorney, hire a probate document assistant, or try to do it on your own. Many people are unaware they can file probate without a lawyer. If you need to file probate in Marin County, consider A People’s Choice, a non-attorney probate service. The post How to File Probate in Marin County appeared first on A People's Choice.

How to File Probate in El Dorado County

By |2018-04-18T23:50:20-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Learn how to file probate in El Dorado County without an attorney. Yes, you don't need to hire an attorney to probate your loved one’s estate. In fact, probating an estate is a relatively straightforward process when using the inexpensive, flat-fee, non-attorney legal document probate services of A People's Choice. The post How to File Probate in El Dorado County appeared first on A People's Choice.

The Complicated Map of California Probate (a Video)

By |2018-04-18T23:50:34-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Understanding the complicated map of California probate can be overwhelming. A People's Choice can help you navigate through the complexities of California probate and save you the expensive statutory fees charged by attorneys. This video will show you how. The post The Complicated Map of California Probate (a Video) appeared first on A People's Choice.

File Probate in Mariposa County

By |2018-04-18T23:50:42-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Do you need to file probate in Mariposa County? Did you know you don't need to hire an attorney to file probate in Mariposa County? Filing probate without any help is not a smart choice; however, you can easily file probate yourself with a legal document preparer's help for a fraction of the cost charged by lawyers. The post File Probate in Mariposa County appeared first on A People's Choice.

File Probate in Amador County

By |2018-04-18T23:50:53-07:00April 18th, 2018|

If you need to file probate in Amador County, you may want to consider your options. First, do you want to hire an attorney or act as your own attorney? Although most people believe you need an attorney to file probate, this is not the case. Moreover, you probably will not want to hire an attorney to file probate in Amador County once you learn how much the statutory attorney's fees are. In either case, it is essential to do your research and know your options. The post File Probate in Amador County appeared first on A People's Choice.

California Probate Timeline (a Video)

By |2018-04-30T12:10:40-07:00April 18th, 2018|

California probate can be broken down into separate phases, 1) preparing the initial petition and attending the hearing; 2) handling debts; 3) itemizing property and 4) distributing assets. This video explains the California probate timeline. The post California Probate Timeline (a Video) appeared first on A People's Choice.

How to File Probate in Napa County

By |2018-04-18T23:53:35-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Do you need to file probate in Napa County? At A People’s Choice, we can help you complete the forms you need to file probate in Napa County without hiring a lawyer! A People's Choice completes most probate matters within a year. Read on to learn more about how to file probate in Napa County and how we can help. The post How to File Probate in Napa County appeared first on A People's Choice.

How to File Probate in Sacramento County

By |2018-04-18T23:53:43-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Do you need to file probate in Sacramento County? Fortunately, you can file probate in Sacramento County without a lawyer. A People's Choice has helped thousands of people complete all the legal documents they need to successfully complete the probate process. Here are some helpful tips to file probate in Sacramento. The post How to File Probate in Sacramento County appeared first on A People's Choice.

File Probate in San Benito County

By |2018-04-18T23:53:56-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Do you need to file probate in San Benito County? A People’s Choice can help you complete and file the legal documents you need to start and finish the probate process. Moreover, if you work with a legal document probate assistant, you will save time and money to probate the estate. Contrary to popular belief, it is not necessary to hire an attorney to probate an estate in San Benito County. The post File Probate in San Benito County appeared first on A People's Choice.

File Probate in Sonoma County

By |2018-04-18T23:54:32-07:00April 18th, 2018|

Need to file probate in Sonoma County? Contact A People’s Choice to work with a probate specialist. You don't need to hire an attorney to probate an estate in Sonoma County, and we can save you thousands of dollars as compared to what a lawyer charges. Here's everything you need to know to file probate in Somona County. The post File Probate in Sonoma County appeared first on A People's Choice.

The Legal Blog of ProbatebyME.com and A People’s Choice

By |2020-01-19T16:52:59-08:00April 14th, 2018|

Welcome to our online legal blog! This blog and our websites are designed for people who want to save money, are not afraid of the legal system and want to learn how to handle their legal matter without hiring an attorney. Our blogs are an excellent resource for legal information and news covering a wide variety of legal topics, and we post 8-10 new articles each month covering different legal topics of interest. If you want to keep up on various legal issues or expand your legal knowledge and receive notification of new articles, subscribe through our parent site. Excerpts of articles covering estate administration and probate matters can be found on our ProbatebyME.com site with a convenient link to the main article found our APeoplesChoice.com site.

File Probate Without an Attorney in California

By |2018-04-18T23:55:00-07:00April 14th, 2018|

Is it possible to file probate without an attorney in California? Yes! You don't need to hire an attorney to file probate in California. In fact, 98% of estates can be successsfully probated without a lawyer. Learn how our non-attorney probate service can help you avoid paying outrageous attorney fees and save money!

How to File Probate in Sutter County

By |2018-05-20T18:14:02-07:00April 7th, 2018|

Do you need to file probate in Sutter County?A People’s Choice has helped thousands of people just like you complete the probate process without hiring an attorney. This article explains how to file probate in Sutter County, how to contact the probate referee, access the Sutter County probate court docket and more! The post How to File Probate in Sutter County appeared first on A People's Choice.

How to File Probate in Stanislaus County

By |2018-12-15T07:01:30-08:00September 10th, 2017|

Would you like to file probate in Stanislaus County? This article provides helpful tips in doing so. Contact us for more information about how to file probate in Stanislaus County. Overview of Probate in Stanislaus County Probate courts oversee the legal transfer and the administration of property of minors, deceased, and physically or mentally disabled [...] The post How to File Probate in Stanislaus County appeared first on A People's Choice.

Understanding the California Small Estate Probate Process

By |2018-04-18T22:46:21-07:00July 3rd, 2015|

California probate law provides spouses and beneficiaries the option of administering an estate outside the formal probate process. Surviving beneficiaries are able to transfer personal and real property using simplified probate procedures such as completing a simple affidavit. Read on to learn more about the California small estate probate process for estates valued under $150,000. Small Estate [...] The post Understanding the California Small Estate Probate Process appeared first on A People's Choice.

California Probate Costs and Fees

By |2018-04-18T22:52:42-07:00July 1st, 2015|

Probate can be quite confusing and complex, especially when estimating probate costs and fees including attorney/executor fees and payment schedules. At A People’s Choice, we try to explain the probate process as simply as possible to get you on the right track quickly. If you have questions about California probate costs and fees, the following [...] The post California Probate Costs and Fees appeared first on A People's Choice.