View Consultation Options |
Estate & Probate Administration
Contact us content-image Meet the team
Overview What It Is Common Challenges Our Services Sample Case FAQ How We Can Help
content-image
Estate and Probate Administration in California

Whether you’re an executor trying to do the right thing or a beneficiary trying to understand your rights, the probate process can feel overwhelming. Between legal filings, court deadlines, asset valuations, and family tensions, it’s easy to feel like you’re in over your head.

That’s where we come in.

At Burrey Law Group, we help individuals and families navigate California probate and estate administration with clarity, confidence, and peace of mind. We provide guidance at every step, resolving issues before they become conflicts and stepping in to litigate when necessary.

What Is Estate & Probate Administration?

Probate is the legal process through which a deceased person’s estate is administered. In California, this often includes:

Estate Administration
Validating a will (if one exists)
content-image
Appointing an executor or administrator
Fiduciary Accounting
Identifying and inventorying assets
Trust Lawyer Near Me
Notifying creditors and resolving debts
Estate Administration
Distributing assets to beneficiaries
Estate Administration
Filing required reports with the probate court
If no will exists, the court appoints an administrator, and assets are distributed according to California’s intestate succession laws. Even when families agree on what’s fair, navigating these requirements correctly—and on time—is critical. Mistakes can create delays, disputes, or even personal liability for the administrator.
content-image
Common Challenges in Probate Administration

Administering an estate isn’t just paperwork—it often requires tough decisions, family diplomacy, and financial oversight.

We frequently help clients address:

  • Unclear or outdated wills
  • Disagreements over asset distribution
  • Disputes between co-executors or beneficiaries
  • Missing, undervalued, or mismanaged property
  • Challenges with creditor claims or tax issues
  • Claims of undue influence, elder abuse, or fraud

Whether you’re trying to stay ahead of these challenges or respond to them, having an experienced probate attorney can make a meaningful difference.

content-image
How Burrey Law Group Can Help

Our team provides tailored legal support for all aspects of probate and estate administration. Whether you’re trying to do everything by the book or need help resolving a specific dispute, we’ll meet you where you are.

We can assist you with:

  • Preparing and filing probate petitions
  • Guiding executors and administrators through their legal duties
  • Responding to objections or claims
  • Overseeing or contesting accountings
  • Facilitating distributions and estate closure
  • Representing you in mediation or court if needed

We’re also available to provide limited-scope consultations for those handling simpler estates but seeking clarity and reassurance.

Case Example

For a Bay Area woman serving as executor for her late brother’s estate, questions from his spouse regarding the distribution of the family home created uncertainty. Despite her brother’s clear designation of his interest in the property to his siblings, the situation felt precarious. Seeking to protect herself and the estate’s integrity, she contacted Burrey Law Group. We provided immediate support by thoroughly examining the estate plan, confirming the separate property status of the home, and ensuring all probate procedures were flawlessly executed. With our support, she was able to finalize distributions and avoid a costly legal dispute.

Not necessarily. Small estates, certain trusts, and jointly owned property may pass outside of probate. We can help determine whether formal probate is required.

Most probate cases take 9 to 18 months, depending on the complexity of the estate and whether any disputes arise.

An executor is named in a valid will. An administrator is appointed by the court when there’s no will or no named executor available.

Yes, if you act negligently or violate your fiduciary duties. That’s why having legal counsel is so important.

Whether you’re just getting started or already facing complications in the probate process, we’re here to make the path forward easier. At Burrey Law Group, we combine technical expertise with practical guidance—helping you carry out your responsibilities with confidence and care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Some of your burning questions have been answered.

Get in touch Guiding You Every Step of the Way

Whether you’re just getting started or already facing complications in the probate process, we’re here to make the path forward easier. At Burrey Law Group, we combine technical expertise with practical guidance—helping you carry out your responsibilities with confidence and care.

Contact us today for a consultation.

Contact Us