Probate Litigation Attorney in Beverly Hills, CA

Resolving Probate Disputes for Clients in the Los Angeles Area

Probate litigation is a type of legal proceeding that arises when there is a dispute over the disposition of an estate. The dispute may arise between beneficiaries of the estate, or between beneficiaries and the executor of the estate. In some cases, the dispute may also arise between beneficiaries and the government, due to the estate's failure to pay taxes during the decedent's lifetime.

At Scott D. Fisher, A Professional Law Corporation, we provide experienced probate litigation services to our clients in the Los Angeles area. Attorney Scott Fisher has worked on numerous probate disputes over the course of his career, and he has the experience and skill to help you resolve your dispute successfully.

For a free initial consultation, call us at (323) 989-4860 or contact us online.

Understanding Probate Litigation

Probate litigation is a type of legal proceeding that involves the estate of a deceased person. The dispute may arise between beneficiaries of the estate, or between beneficiaries and the executor of the estate. In some cases, the dispute may also arise between beneficiaries and the government, due to the estate's failure to pay taxes during the decedent's lifetime. The dispute may also arise between beneficiaries and creditors of the decedent, if the decedent had outstanding debts.

Probate litigation is generally divided into two types: informal probate litigation and formal probate litigation. Informal probate litigation is usually a dispute between beneficiaries and the executor of the estate, or between beneficiaries and creditors. Formal probate litigation is usually a dispute between beneficiaries and the government, due to the estate's failure to pay taxes during the decedent's lifetime. In both cases, informal and formal, the dispute may be resolved by mediation or by litigation.

Common Types of Probate Disputes

Informal probate is a simplified and less formal legal probate process used to settle an individual's estate after their death. It is typically employed when there is no dispute among the heirs and beneficiaries and when the estate's affairs are relatively straightforward. In informal probate, the court oversees the process but requires minimal judicial intervention.

Advantages of Choosing Informal Probate

Less Court Involvement: Unlike formal probate, which involves more court hearings and oversight, informal probate relies on the executor or personal representative to manage most aspects of the estate settlement.

Speed and Efficiency: Informal probate is generally quicker and more efficient since it doesn't require as many court appearances or formal legal procedures.

Simplified Procedures: The process involves submitting necessary documents and forms to the court, such as the will, death certificate, inventory of assets, and other required information.

Less Costly: Due to its streamlined nature, informal probate is often less expensive than formal probate.

No Adversarial Proceedings: Informal probate is suitable when there are no disputes among family members or beneficiaries regarding the distribution of assets or the validity of the will.

Asset Distribution: Once the court approves the documentation and confirms that all legal requirements have been met, the assets can be distributed to the heirs and beneficiaries as outlined in the will or according to state law if there is no will.

Understanding Informal Probate in Beverly Hills, CA

In Beverly Hills, informal probate is often a preferred option for families looking to settle an estate without the stress of lengthy court proceedings. It’s a simpler process that allows assets to be distributed efficiently, avoiding some of the complexities that come with formal probate. For residents dealing with property, investments, or sentimental family heirlooms, informal probate can help resolve these matters more quickly and with fewer disputes.

Addressing Common Obstacles

Common challenges during informal probate include disagreements among family members about asset distribution, questions about the validity of a will, or concerns over the executor’s handling of the estate. In a community like Beverly Hills, where protecting family legacies and wealth is a priority, understanding how informal probate works can save both time and stress.

At Scott D. Fisher, A Professional Law Corporation, we are dedicated to guiding families through the informal probate process. With deep knowledge of the local legal system, we can help you navigate challenges like contested wills or asset disputes. Our goal is to make the process as smooth as possible, so you can focus on moving forward while preserving your family’s legacy.

Contact Our Los Angeles Probate Litigation Team Today

At Scott D. Fisher, A Professional Law Corporation, we provide experienced probate litigation services to our clients in the Los Angeles area. Attorney Scott Fisher has worked on numerous probate disputes over the course of his career, and he has the experience and skill to help you resolve your dispute successfully.

For a free initial consultation, call us at (323) 989-4860 or contact us online to speak with an informal probate lawyer in Los Angeles.