Probate

Compassionate Guidance Through the Court Process

Losing a loved one brings grief and a long list of responsibilities. Managing legal, financial, and everyday matters can feel overwhelming—especially if the estate must go through probate.

At Chaney Counsel, we guide families through California probate with clarity and compassion. We make the process easy to understand, help you stay on track with deadlines, and support you every step of the way.

What is Probate?

Probate is a court process for transferring a person’s assets after death. The court appoints someone to act for the estate, identifies assets, pays debts, and approves distributions to heirs or beneficiaries.

Probate is usually required if someone dies owning assets in their own name without a trust or beneficiary listed.

When Is Probate Required?

You may need probate if:

• There’s no trust in place
• Assets are in the person’s name only
• Real estate must be transferred
• No beneficiary is listed on accounts
• Family needs legal authority to access assets
• There are disputes about inheritance

Not every estate needs a full probate. Some smaller estates can use simpler procedures.

How We Help

Chaney Counsel supports families with probate cases across Los Angeles, Ventura, and Southern California. Here’s how we can help:

• Prepare and file the probate petition
• Request the court to appoint a representative
• Handle court forms and notices
• Help you get official Letters from the court
• Guide you through your duties as personal representative
• Take care of publication and notice requirements
• Assist with inventory and working with the probate referee
• Prepare reports, accountings, and petitions for distribution
• Make sure the estate is closed properly

We also explain what to expect, which documents you’ll need, and what it means to be an executor or administrator.

Executor or Administrator Responsibilities

If the court appoints you as a personal representative, you have important duties:

• Collect and protect estate assets
• Notify heirs, beneficiaries, and creditors
• Manage estate expenses
• Keep accurate records
• Cooperate with the probate referee
• Communicate with anyone interested in the estate
• File paperwork with the court
• Distribute assets only when approved

We help you understand your role so you can move forward confidently and avoid common mistakes.

How Long Does Probate take?

The probate timeline depends on the county, the court’s schedule, estate assets, taxes, creditor issues, and any disputes. Even a straightforward probate often takes several months or more.

We keep the process organized, break down each step, and work to move things along as efficiently as possible.

Can Probate Be Avoided?

Often, yes. A well-prepared and funded Revocable Living Trust can help families avoid probate. If your loved one has already passed away and probate is required, we’ll explain your options and guide you through the court process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between an executor and an administrator?
An executor is named in a will to manage the estate. If there’s no will or the executor can’t serve, the court appoints an administrator. Both have similar duties once appointed.

Do I have authority to manage the estate before the court appoints me?
Usually not. You’ll need court-issued Letters before you can act for the estate with banks, financial institutions, or others.

What if my loved one had a will?
A will doesn’t always avoid probate. If assets are in the person’s name alone, probate may be required—even with a valid will.

What if my estate is small?
California has simpler procedures for some small estates. We’ll help you figure out if you qualify.

Can Chaney Counsel help if there’s also an estate plan?
Yes. We review estate planning documents, determine if probate is needed, and help with trust administration or probate as needed.

Still have questions? Learn more here.

Support for Families After Loss

Probate can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Chaney Counsel provides clear explanations, organized guidance, and compassionate support so you always know what to expect.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and talk about next steps for your loved one’s estate.