Many California couples assume a surviving spouse automatically inherits everything. State intestacy law says otherwise. Here is what really happens to community property, separate property, and jointly held assets without a trust or will in place.
Read MoreWithout a will or living trust, California law sends your estate through probate. Here is what that means for your family: months of delay, real cost, and a distribution plan the state chooses instead of you.
Read MoreMost California living trust packages run $3,500 to $9,000 and bundle a trust, pour-over will, power of attorney, healthcare directive, and deed work. See how that compares to the cost of probate and cut-rate online templates.
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Six probate surprises that catch new California executors off guard, from hidden costs and long timelines to creditor claims, tax duties, real property delays, and family disputes.
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A practical rundown of what California families need to know about probate costs and timelines, naming guardians, funding a trust, and keeping an estate plan current.
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