Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in California

My father in law has passed away a few days ago. His wife (my mother in law is still alive). My father in law had a trust and a will. He had a house in a trust and a few small things listed in his will. Is it necessary to take the will to the county and have it go through probate. Or can my mother in law just distribute those few things listed in his will? Do we have to do anything about the trust, or we do it after my mother in law passed away. Is there a time limit for registering his will with the county.


Asked on 7/01/17, 7:02 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Michele Cusack Pollak & Cusack

Unless the non-trust assets are worth more than $150,000, the will does not have to be probated, but should be deposited with the court for safekeeping. If part of the trust became irrevocable on your father-in-law's death, his successor trustee must notify all the remainder beneficiaries and provide a copy of the trust upon request.

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Answered on 7/02/17, 5:01 pm


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