4580 East Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Suite 250 Westlake Village, CA 91362

Why Hire a Probate Attorney?

A probate attorney is necessary for a variety of reasons, but most commonly managing the filing of the last testament or will of a deceased person. Disputes are not uncommon when it comes to property and oftentimes, a probate attorney is necessary to avoid or solve such disputes. Unfortunately, people don’t consider finding a probate lawyer until it’s too late – after someone has passed. During this time, there is a sense of urgency to find a probate attorney and one does not have the time to “shop around” to find one that fits your needs – which is why it’s important to find a probate lawyer early on.

Oftentimes, this area of law can be confusing. However, defined simply, probate is the process that occurs after an individual passes away that involves distributing assets and taking care of any debts.  This is a process that happens regardless of whether or not there is a will… however, the process is much easier and more straightforward when there is a will involved.

What Exactly Does a Probate Attorney Do?
A California probate attorney can help you create a last will and testament to ensure that your family members and assets are taken care in the event of your passing. Catanese & Wells can also assist with living trusts as well as powers of attorney. Probate attorneys also deal with other issues such as income tax. Challenges to a will can and do occur on a regular basis and when this happens, it becomes necessary to have a good lawyer who is fully equipped to handle the case.

Making sure that everything is taken care of before passing on is crucial, as one mistake may set back the executor of your will by months.  An experienced California probate attorney will know everything that needs to be done in order to probate an estate in a timely manner.