California provides special rules for small estates to avoid the expense and time of a regular probate procedure. As of January 1, 2012, eligibility limits have been raised from $100,000 to $150,000 for the value of all the property that would otherwise be subject to probate. Real estate of small...
Avoiding Probate
There are several ways to avoid probate in California, and it would be wise to consult an estate planner to discuss which method of transfer to beneficiaries would suit your particular circumstance. Taking a property in joint tenancy keeps a property out of probate. A living trust would keep all...
Per Capita vs. Per Stirpes
Often in wills or trusts, an individual will designate the shares given to individuals as “per capita” or “per stirpes.” What is the difference? Per capita means “per individual.” This means that if someone says, “I give to my children equal shares, per capita, my estate,” all individuals living at...