Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in California

my mother passed aug. 6, 2010. She had all legal papers drawn up poa, trust, and the will. She name me in all three as power of attorney, trustee for the trust and executor of the will. My question should I hire an attorney to settle the estate, and how much should I pay?


Asked on 9/26/10, 4:49 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys

Eliz. C. A. Johnson Eliz. C. A. Johnson

There is not enough information to answer that question. Are you the only heir or are there many? Is there real estate? What is the size of the estate? If small enough, it may be able to pass without probate. What is in trust and what is under the will?

Fees are statutory for probate if that is required. If it were done properly, though, there should be no need for probate. Trust work is hourly.

925-362-1010

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Answered on 10/01/10, 4:58 pm
Aaron Feldman Feldman Law Group

Sorry to hear about your loss. Costs to administer an Estate depend on specific facts, including the nature of the assets, how title is held, etc... Were assets transferred into the trust properly or will a Petition be required. To wind up and administer a trust can take a relatively few hours to many hours, depending on various factors. Are there claims against the trust/estate? Are there multiple properties requiring title to be transferred to multiple beneficiaries? I recommend you consult with an attorney. I would be happy to provide a free consultation to determine the scope of the issues facing the administration.

925-283-6691

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Answered on 10/01/10, 5:13 pm
Donald Field Donald L. Field, Jr., Attorney at Law

yes, you should retain a qualified attorney to provide you with advice and legal services as required for this complex and important procedure.

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Answered on 10/08/10, 10:58 am


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