A simple guide for families who want to avoid court delays and extra costs.
When someone dies without a will in California, the law decides who inherits their property. This is called “intestate succession.” It means your family has to go through probate court — a slow and often expensive process.
If you’re married, your spouse usually inherits most of your assets. If you have children, they share what’s left. But if you don’t have close family, the court may need to search for relatives, which can take months or even years.
Why it matters:
A will lets you choose who gets what and who handles your estate. Without one, your family loses control, and the court steps in. That can create stress, delay, and unnecessary fees.
How to avoid problems:
- Make a simple will or trust. Even a basic plan is better than none.
- Keep it updated. Review it after big life changes like marriage, divorce, or buying a home.
- Talk with a local estate planning attorney. California’s laws are unique, and small errors can make documents invalid.
At Kris Paden, Estate Planning Attorney, we help Los Angeles, Sonoma and Marin County families make plans that protect their loved ones and reduce stress later.
Need help getting started?
Call or email to schedule a phone conference — we’ll walk you through each step in plain English.