Probate Law Firm in Norwalk

Experienced California trust and estates attorneys help guide you through the process

Probate follows what is typically a painful emotional loss. Knowledgeable, meticulous probate attorney Paul J. Fukushima has more than 35 years of experience in probate law and knows how to ease the stress of probate by guiding executors and beneficiaries through the complex process.

The process of probate

Most executors have rarely if ever probated a will and know little about the process. We can guide you through the complex probate process, including:

Valuing and managing the estate

We assist executors with the arduous process of collecting, managing, valuing, protecting and liquidating the assets of the estate. We have a team of experts available to assist in every aspect of estate probate. When appropriate, we call upon accountants, financial advisers, real estate agents, property managers and other professionals to assist with executor duties. We can access expert opinions about unique assets such as antiques, rare books, automobiles and other collectables for accurate valuation, management and possible sale.

Probate disputes

Even in apparently straightforward estate cases, there are sometimes disputes between beneficiaries. Our attorneys’ professional courtroom presence can calm the emotionally-charged process of probating a challenged will, or disputed executor or judicial decision. When it is in the best interests of our client to preserve cordial familial relationships, our attorneys are adept at mediating these disputes. When necessary, we assertively defend our client’s beneficiary rights within the California probate court.

Conservatorships

We can help you arrange for the care of an elderly parent or disabled adult child. We guide you in choosing a conservator whom you can trust to manage the financial needs of your loved ones.

Caring for an incapacitated adult

When devising your estate plan, the care of the most vulnerable members of your family is likely your foremost concern. We advise you on making crucial decisions about the financial support, protection and guardianship of developmentally disabled or physically challenged adults, or similarly disadvantaged children who face a precarious future if left to their own devices.

Appointment of guardianship

If you have minor children, your will allows you to make decisions about their future care. This is especially crucial if you are a single parent or if both parents die in a common incident. If you do not name a guardian, the court will appoint a guardian for your children and can make decisions adverse to your ultimate parenting goals. You can also make arrangements for your pets’ care in your will, including naming a guardian to take responsibility for your pets.

Contact a thorough estate planning lawyer, Paul J. Fukushima.

We serve clients in Norwalk and throughout California. Call us at 562-239-9113 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation.