Best Probate Lawyers in Burbank

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Burbank, California?

  To report non-emergencies, individuals can contact the Burbank Police Department at 818-238-3333.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Burbank, California?

  You can get a copy of a police report in Burbank by visiting the Records Bureau of the Burbank Police Department located at 200 North Third St., Burbank, CA, 91502.

• What is the role of a probate attorney in Burbank, particularly when dealing with a person's will and estate?

  In Burbank, a probate attorney provides critical guidance when handling the estate of a deceased person, especially when no estate plan exists. If a dispute arises over the will, it may delay the procedure. Certain assets, like life insurance with designated beneficiaries, might bypass probate. However, many other assets necessitate probate despite the presence of a will. The will must be lodged in the deceased's home county to honor their wishes and distribute their estate correctly.

• How can one settle an estate in Burbank through probate?

  To settle an estate in Burbank via probate, one must file the decedent's will, then request probate to appoint an executor. If no will exists, the court assigns a representative, and all heirs are notified. The executor, empowered by court-issued "Letters Testamentary," presents an inventory of the estate's assets to the court. After all debts and taxes are paid, a request to close the probate is filed. Finally, the court orders asset distribution to beneficiaries.

• What is the procedure for handling smaller estates in Burbank?

  In Burbank, a streamlined process known as "summary probate" is accessible for estates falling below the "small estates" threshold. This procedure bypasses the usual probate protocols, enabling beneficiaries to transfer or receive assets effortlessly. To initiate the process, the estate's executor must present a petition or affidavit to the local probate court following a mandatory waiting period of 40 days from the decedent's passing.

• What happens when a non-California resident owning property in Burbank passes away?

  In instances where an individual who resides outside California but holds real estate in Burbank passes away, dual probate cases may be necessary. One for the domicile state and ancillary probate for California. This ancillary process enables the court to administer and deal with the Burbank property, either through distribution to beneficiaries or a court-ordered sale, allowing for the dispersion of funds among the heirs.

• If a Burbank resident passes away, what is the procedure for filing their will and initiating the probate process?

  If a Burbank resident passes away, their will must be lodged with the county's Probate Court Clerk within a month, regardless of whether probate is necessary. Should the estate require probate, a "Petition to Probate Decedent's Estate" must be completed and submitted. Simultaneously, a notification of this Petition should be dispatched to all individuals mentioned within it.