When a close relative or friend dies, there are several important legal and taxation matters to be addressed. If the deceased person has a certain amount of property, you may need to initiate “Probate” proceedings.

“Probate” is the process whereby a Court supervises the transfer of assets from the deceased person to his or her heirs. Probate requires the filing of particularized and complicated legal forms, and the entire process is supervised by the Probate Department of the California Superior Court in the County in which the decedent resided at the time of death.

Whether you are in need of a will or someone close to you has passed on, probate law and the issues surrounding the probate process can be difficult and time consuming. It is often better to speak with a probate attorney and make plans to avoid loved ones from having to guess as to your wishes. Jeffrey R. Matsen can help you with the following probate issues:

• Formal Administration of Estates and Probating of Wills
• Asset Distribution
• Summary and Ancillary Administration
• Will Contests and Estate/Trust Litigation
• Estate Tax (IRS Form 706) Preparation & Filing