7040 / 5150 E Los Santos Drive, Long Beach, CA 90815
Expert Probate & Estate Administration in Long Beach
Simplify estate administration with efficient petition filing, precise asset valuation, and seamless distribution
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Why Choose Murrin Law Firm for Probate Matters?
With decades of experience in estate administration, we provide unparalleled guidance through the probate process.
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Decades of Experience
With years of legal expertise in estate administration, our team offers unparalleled guidance.
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Personalized Service
We tailor our approach to your unique situation, ensuring efficient management of all estates.
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Transparent Fee Structures
Our probate services are billed either hourly or on a court-approved percentage basis for clarity.
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Local & Nationwide Expertise
Serving Long Beach and clients across California and the United States with comprehensive knowledge.
When Is Probate Required?
Understanding when probate is necessary is crucial for proper estate planning and administration.
Economic Damages
Even if a decedent has left a valid will, probate is typically necessary to validate the document and authorize asset distribution. When no will exists (intestate), state law determines the heirs.
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Estate Complexity & Value
The need for probate can depend on the type and value of assets involved. Smaller estates may qualify for expedited procedures, whereas larger, more complex estates require a formal probate process.
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Non-Probate Transfers
Certain assets, such as those held in joint tenancy, community property, or designated as "payable on death" (POD), may pass directly to survivors without going through probate. However, proper documentation is required.
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Probate vs. Trust Administration
While probate involves court oversight, assets placed in a trust typically transfer directly to beneficiaries without probate. At Murrin Law Firm, we provide counsel on both processes, ensuring you understand the best strategy for your estate’s needs.
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The Probate Process Explained
Understanding each step of the probate process helps you navigate this complex legal procedure with confidence.
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Initiating Probate
Filing a PetitionThe process begins when the probate petition is filed with the appropriate court by the personal representative (or executor) named in the will.
Issuance of Letters TestamentaryOnce the court validates the petition, it issues Letters Testamentary, granting the personal representative the authority to manage and distribute the estate.
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Asset Inventory and Valuation
Identifying AssetsThe personal representative gathers all the assets—including real estate, bank accounts, investments, and personal property.
ValuationAccurate valuation is essential for ensuring that assets are distributed equitably and that all debts and taxes are properly addressed.
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Creditor Notification and Debt Settlement
Notifying CreditorsCreditors are given notice and a specific time frame (typically around four months) to file claims against the estate.
Prioritizing PaymentsLaws determine which debts must be paid first if the estate’s assets are insufficient to cover all claims.
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Distribution of Assets
Following the Will or Intestate LawsAfter all debts and taxes are settled, remaining assets are distributed according to the terms of the will or state intestacy laws if no will exists.
Final AccountingThe personal representative must submit a final accounting to the court, ensuring transparency in how the estate was administered.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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What is probate and how does it work at Murrin Law Firm in Long Beach?
- Probate is the legal process of validating a will (if one exists) and overseeing the distribution of a decedent’s assets while settling debts. At Murrin Law Firm, our experienced Long Beach probate attorneys guide you through every step of this court-supervised process.
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How do I start the probate process in Long Beach with Murrin Law Firm?
- Initiating probate starts by filing a petition with the local court. Our team at Murrin Law Firm helps you prepare and submit all necessary documents to ensure an efficient start to the estate administration process.
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What probate services does Murrin Law Firm offer in Long Beach?
- We provide comprehensive probate services including petition filing, asset valuation, creditor notifications, trust administration, and final asset distribution. Our tailored approach addresses both simple and complex estate administration needs.
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How are non-probate assets handled by Murrin Law Firm?
- Assets held in joint tenancy, payable-on-death (POD) accounts, or life insurance policies bypass probate and transfer directly to beneficiaries. Our Long Beach experts ensure that all required documentation, such as affidavits of survivorship, is properly filed for smooth transfers.
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What is trust administration and how can it help avoid lengthy probate proceedings?
- Trust administration allows assets placed in a trust to bypass probate, leading to faster and more private asset distribution. We advise on trust strategies to minimize court involvement and streamline estate planning.
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Who is the personal representative in a probate case and what is their role?
- The personal representative (or executor) manages the estate by paying debts, collecting assets, and distributing property. Murrin Law Firm supports personal representatives with expert guidance, ensuring a transparent and efficient probate process.
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How does Murrin Law Firm handle creditor claims during probate?
- After probate is initiated, creditors are notified and given a statutory period to file claims. Our Long Beach probate attorneys ensure that all valid claims are addressed promptly and in accordance with California law, protecting the estate’s integrity.
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Why should I choose Murrin Law Firm as my probate attorney in Long Beach?
- With decades of local experience, Murrin Law Firm is a trusted name in probate and estate administration. We offer personalized, transparent, and efficient legal solutions, ensuring your estate is managed with the utmost care.
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What fee structures does Murrin Law Firm offer for probate services?
- We offer flexible fee arrangements including hourly rates and court-approved percentage fees, ensuring you receive value-driven legal support with clear, transparent billing practices.
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What tax implications should I consider during the probate process?
- Probate can have tax implications, including potential estate and capital gains taxes. Murrin Law Firm provides guidance on these complexities to help minimize tax burdens and ensure compliance with California law.
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What documentation is required to begin the probate process in Long Beach?
- Typically, you will need the original will, a death certificate, an inventory of assets, and creditor information. Murrin Law Firm assists you in gathering and organizing these documents to expedite the probate process.
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Can Murrin Law Firm help with both probate and non-probate asset transfers?
- Yes. In addition to managing traditional probate cases, we offer expert advice on non-probate transfers such as joint tenancy and POD accounts, ensuring that your assets are transferred efficiently without unnecessary court intervention.
