An Experienced Lawyer Guiding You Through the Probate Process
In many cases, the property of a person who had died needs to go through the court process of probate before it can be distributed to beneficiaries. Probate can be a complex and costly process. Securing the assistance of an attorney experienced in estate administration and probate can help to keep costs down and move things along as quickly as possible.
At the office of Thomas F. Miles, Attorney and Counselor at Law, in El Cajon, we have more than 32 years of experience representing clients throughout San Diego County and surrounding communities. In matters of probate, we strive to uphold your deceased loved one's final wishes while helping to reduce your stress during this difficult time.
For a free initial consultation with an experienced and compassionate lawyer, contact our office at 619-631-4833 or 866-471-0416.
Understanding Probate
Probate is essentially a court process of validating a will and allowing for the transfer of assets to beneficiaries. If a person has passed away without a will the court will apply state inheritance laws to the estate. Matters typically addressed during probate include:
- The distribution of estate assets, including payment of state and federal taxes
- Hearing any will contests or inheritance disputes brought forward by creditors or others seeking to collect from the estate
- Ruling on the legitimacy of any outstanding claims against the estate
The multitudes of steps involved in probate are often more than the average person cares to take on. Securing the assistance of a knowledgeable lawyer can help to ensure the process goes as smoothly as possible and that your loved one's final wishes are carried out according to plan.
Taking Proactive Steps to Avoid Probate
Not every estate has to go through probate. Through careful estate planning prior to death, it is sometimes possible to avoid probate, allowing more of your assets to transfer to your surviving loved ones. However, when probate is necessary, we can help to guide an estate's administrator through the process.
Contact Thomas F. Miles, Attorney and Counselor at Law
To arrange a free initial consultation, contact our law firm at 619-631-4833 or 866-471-0416. We are open from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., Monday through Friday and evenings and weekends by appointment.
Se habla español
Thomas F. Miles, Attorney and Counselor at Law
152 West Park Ave
El Cajon, CA 92020
Telephone: 619-588-5000
Fax: 619-588-6200
El Cajon Law Office