Probate Law

GUIDING FAMILIES THROUGH PROBATE WITH CLARITY AND CARE

Probate is the court-supervised process for administering a person’s estate after death. It may involve admitting a will to probate, appointing a personal representative, identifying and valuing assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing the remaining property to beneficiaries or heirs.

The Law Offices of Oliver Greenwood guides families and personal representatives through each stage of the California probate process with practical advice, clear communication, and personal attention.

WHEN IS PROBATE REQUIRED?

Probate may be necessary when a person dies owning property in their individual name without a surviving joint owner, designated beneficiary, or properly funded trust. Probate assets commonly include:

• Real estate held in the decedent’s name
• Bank and investment accounts without beneficiary designations
• Business interests
• Valuable personal property

California provides simplified procedures for certain estates. For deaths occurring on or after April 1, 2025, qualifying estates valued at $208,850 or less may be eligible for a small-estate procedure. A separate procedure may be available for a decedent’s California primary residence valued at up to $750,000. The appropriate procedure depends upon the type, value, and ownership of the assets.

HOW WE HELP

We assist executors, administrators, beneficiaries, and family members with:

• Preparing and filing the petition for probate
• Obtaining the appointment of a personal representative
• Providing required notices to heirs, beneficiaries, and creditors
• Identifying, collecting, and appraising estate assets
• Addressing creditor claims and tax obligations
• Coordinating with probate referees, accountants, and real estate professionals
• Preparing accountings and petitions for final distribution
• Resolving contested probate matters

THE PROBATE PROCESS

A typical probate administration includes:

1. Filing a petition and obtaining the appointment of a personal representative
2. Giving notice to heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, and other interested persons
3. Identifying, collecting, and appraising estate assets
4. Paying valid debts, taxes, and administration expenses
5. Distributing the remaining estate
6. Obtaining a court order closing the estate

CONTESTED PROBATE AND LITIGATION

Some estates involve disputes concerning the validity or interpretation of a will, undue influence, financial elder abuse, ownership of property, creditor claims, accountings, or the conduct of an executor, administrator, or trustee.

Oliver Greenwood represents fiduciaries, beneficiaries, heirs, and other interested persons in contested probate, trust, and conservatorship matters throughout Contra Costa County.

WHY CHOOSE OUR OFFICE?

• More than 20 years of legal experience
• Extensive experience in probate, trust, conservatorship, and guardianship matters
• Practical advice explained in plain English
• Direct attorney involvement throughout the matter
• Personal attention from a boutique law practice

START WITH A CONVERSATION

You do not have to navigate probate alone. Whether the estate involves a straightforward administration or a contested matter, we can help you understand the process, protect your interests, and move the estate toward resolution.