Probate in Marin County
In Marin County and throughout California, if one dies without a will, his or her estate will pass through Marin County probate court. This procedure is to make sure that all of the deceased’s legal obligations are satisfied.
Some common legal obligations are:
- Validation of existing wills, if any
- Repaying debts
- Fulfilling requests that the deceased may have expressed before death
If the deceased has not left a will, probate courts decide the way in which the existing assets should be dispersed according to inheritance laws in California. If a will exists, probate courts will proceed based on the guidelines of the will, as long as the testamentary requests in the will are factual and legal.
The probate process can be complex, as estate laws differ from state to state. Only an experienced Marin County probate lawyer, familiar with California law, can able to help in protecting your rights and financial interests.
Contesting a will
If a family member or heir is doubtful of a clause in the will, or the entire will itself, he or she can contest the validity of a will through litigation. This will eventually bring the will under the legal scrutiny of probate court. Probate courts can reject certain provisions of the will or declare the will itself null and void.
A skilled probate lawyer in Marin County can defend your rights during probate litigation and help claim what is rightfully yours.
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