When a loved one dies, it can be extremely challenging to face the complexities of probate and estate administration. At the Law Offices of Robert ML Baker III, Certified Probate Law Specialist Robert ML Baker III, LL.M. can take on the burdens of resolving the estate so that you and your family can move forward. We educate you on the process and provide honest, straightforward answers to your questions when they arise.

In order to settle the affairs of an estate, probate is often required to assess and discharge any debts held against it. Depending on the size and value of an estate, probate can be a very complicated process. At the Law Offices of Robert ML Baker III, we facilitate and expedite the probate process by gathering the documentation and records necessary to determine the value of an estate’s assets and any debts claimed against it. Our probate attorney reviews all pertinent financial information, determining what taxes, if any, are owed, and settling outstanding debts in the process as well. If the deceased left a will, we advise and counsel clients in regard to their rights and legal prerogatives in cases where certain terms or items fall into dispute.

To enter and finish the probate process with confidence and peace of mind, contact California probate administration lawyer Robert ML Baker III today. Our California office represents clients throughout Los Angeles County, including the cities of Beverly Hills, Culver City, Malibu, Encino, Marina Del Rey, West Los Angeles (West LA), Santa Monica, Venice, Los Angeles, Sherman Oaks and the South Bay.

Probate Legal Representation – Avoiding Problems
Our approach to probate is preventative – by taking steps upfront in the process, you’re better positioned should a will be contested, a creditor petition for trusteeship, or tax issues arise. That’s why the Law Offices of Robert ML Baker III provides “start to finish” probate representation in regard to:

• Contested wills
• Mental capacity
• Undue influence
• Debt settlement
• Asset determination
• Reallocation of assets at death

Prepared to Fight for Our Clients
Sometimes, life situations complicate probate. In cases where the deceased has children from a former marriage, disputes often arise when a current spouse is made executor or administrator of an estate, excluding other family from any proceeds or settlement. Depending on the language and nature of a will or trust, the new spouse – administrator may be in violation of their fiduciary responsibility, which can be challenged effectively in court by our office. Our office also consults forensic accountants and investigators when hidden assets or other financial matters are involved that warrant more detailed, sophisticated consideration.

Probate and Estate Administration in California
When an individual dies, with or without a will, his or her possessions may need to pass through the probate court. This process involves many steps and can seem overwhelming, especially when mourning the death of a loved one. At the Law Offices of Robert ML Baker III, we can help you through each of the steps, ensuring that statutory guidelines are met and deadlines are complied with. We help the executor or administrator to handle all aspects of probate and estate administration, including:

• Wills: Locating and filing any existing will with the clerk of court within 30 days; administering the will and admitting it to probate court; resolving will contests that arise involving the validity of the will.
• Notifications: Complying with California laws that require all interested parties (such as relatives or creditors) to be notified of the death within specific statutory guidelines.
• Assets: Locating and collecting all property or other assets; re-titling the assets, naming the estate as the owner; and obtaining property valuations or appraisals to assess the value of the assets, if necessary.
• Creditor claims: Carefully evaluating all creditors' claims for payment; challenging and litigating creditors' claims where necessary; and paying valid debts.
• Taxes: Completing state and federal estate tax filings when estate planning has not effectively enabled the property to avoid taxation.
• Asset distribution: At the conclusion of the process, distributing the remaining assets to family members and other loved ones in accordance with the will or statutory intestate laws (when there is not a will); re-titling the assets in the name of the beneficiaries and implementing and administering trusts to shield assets for minors, individuals with special needs, and other beneficiaries.

If you need experienced and personal guidance through probate or estate administration, you can trust that Robert ML Baker III will provide you with the quality legal counsel you need to help you through the process as efficiently and effectively as possible. Contact our probate law office for an initial consultation to discuss your concerns with a Certified Probate Law Specialist.

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The Santa Monica, California Law Offices of Robert ML Baker III represents clients throughout Los Angeles County, including the cities of West Hollywood, Westwood, Beverly Hills, Culver City, Malibu, Encino, Marina Del Rey, West Los Angeles (West LA), Santa Monica, Venice, Los Angeles, Sherman Oaks and the South Bay.