Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in California
Inheritance questions, should I contact a lawyer.
My Aunt died and, supposedly, left me her home. She was in a convalescent home at the time of her death and her care was being monitored by an ombudsman that was taking care of all her legal and health matters. Since her death, I've been waiting for someone to contact me but, so far, no one has. Should I contact a lawyer to represent me in this or continue to wait patiently ? I'm on a fixed income and am unable to travel at this time and the city is at the other end of the state. Thank you,
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: inheritance questions
Have you tried contacting the ombudsman? He/she may know whether your aunt had a will/trust and its location, or passed away without one. This information would be important in knowing if the house is coming to you.
Or, perhaps the home is in joint tenancy with you.
Start with the ombudsman for the information, and if you find out you have an inheritance, or the ombudsman doesn't know, then contact an attorney in that area to find out how to proceed.
Although others can start the probate process (or other appropriate process), it is usually the heirs who do--don't depend on someone else to get the ball rolling.
Anticipated Inheritance
I would contact an attorney in the jurisdiction where the decedent lived, or at least have a local attorney find out if a probate action has been commenced in the decedent's jurisdiction. If none has been started and the recorder records disclose real estae owned, you can petition the court to have an action started.
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