Probate

Our Compassionate, Highly Knowledgeable Probate Attorneys Can Help You Navigate & Simplify The Complex Probate Process After The Death Of A Loved One.

Unfortunately, probate can be confusing. It can also be expensive and time-consuming, particularly if there are disagreements among family members or there are creditor claims that necessitate litigation. Because your inheritance may be at stake, and because trying to fill out paperwork and sort through legalities is the last thing anyone wants to do while they’re grieving, it is in your best interests to have quality legal representation and guidance on your side. The experienced attorneys at the Law Offices of Patel & Cardenas can lead you to the quickest, most efficient resolution possible. We can make your probate journey easier. Call today to schedule a free initial consultation and learn more.

We Focus On Probate Guidance & Probate Disputes/Litigation. Trust Us To Achieve The Best Resolution While Protecting Your Rights & Your Loved One’s Wishes.

In order for the probate process to begin, someone must be named as the estate’s executor. If a will was left behind, this person will usually be named in the will; if not, the court will appoint a personal representative to oversee probate instead, usually the closest surviving family member. The executor/personal representative has many legal responsibilities. They must meet deadlines, submit petitions and documentation to the court, formally notify all heirs, negotiate with creditors, file tax returns, manage the assets until they are distributed, and more. 

If you find yourself in the role of estate executor or personal representative, our lawyers can explain what is required of you and assist you as you carry out your duties. We’ll essentially handle everything for you, preventing mistakes that could result in further legal complications, prolong the process, or incur additional fees. If a legal conflict does arise (such as a disgruntled family member claiming that you are cheating them out of their inheritance or a creditor making a larger claim on the estate than they are entitled to), we are well-equipped to defend your interests! 

If you are an heir, we can also represent you. Sometimes estate executors don’t carry out their duties with integrity, and even family members you thought could be trusted may try to take advantage of you when a large inheritance is involved. We can hold them accountable and ensure that you receive what you are entitled to! 

Our attorney team can help you with a variety of probate matters, including:

• Submitting the will and required documents to the court
• Collection, valuation, care of, and distribution of assets
• Accounting actions (we have a CPA who is experienced at handling probate and estates at our disposal)
• Tax filing and appeals
• Intestacy issues (when someone passes away without a will)
• Will contests/testamentary challenges (if the will is accused of being fraudulent, obtained through undue influence, or otherwise invalid)
• Creditor claims
• Contested transfers
• Fiduciary malfeasance/misconduct (if the executor is accused of stealing from the estate)
• Fiduciary removal (naming someone else as the executor)
• Trust administration, contests, and reformation
• Inheritance disputes
• Selling real estate
• And more.

Why Choose The Law Offices of Patel & Cardenas?