Estate Administration in Hermosa Beach, California

Find the right Estate Administration attorney in Hermosa Beach, CA

Estate administration, in basic terms, is the process of maintenance and distribution of a person's assets after they die.

If the decedent had the foresight to draft and execute a will in Hermosa Beach, California, the estate is typically administered in a way that follows the instructions the will lays out, as closely as possible.

The decedent usually names in the will an executor of his or her estate. The executor is the person whose job it is to take the lead role in the administration of an estate.

The person named as executor of an estate usually has some work ahead of them. To ensure that they actually follow through on their obligations, most people name as executor the person who will get the most money, or other benefit, if the will is given effect as written. Because an estate can't be distributed until the administration process is complete, the executor has an incentive to see it through.

What if The Will Does Not Name an Executor?

If a will in Hermosa Beach, California does not name a person to serve as executor, or the decedent dies without having written a will, the court will appoint a person to act as estate administrator.

This is typically the person who will benefit the most if the will is executed. If there is no will (a situation known as "intestacy"), California has a system of laws distributing the decedent's property to his or her closest living relative. In such a situation, the closest living relative has the most to gain from an orderly administration of the estate, so they will typically be appointed.

In cases where the will doesn't name an executor, or the person named is unable to take on that role for whatever reason, any person who has some direct stake in the decedent's estate (either because they're named in the will or stand to inherit by intestacy) can petition a Hermosa Beach, California court to be appointed executor.

Once an executor is appointed (whether by being named in the will, or on the application of another person), they "step into the shoes" of the estate, and are expected to protect its interests to the fullest extent possible. They also are required to accurately inventory the estate's debts and assets, as well as notify potential beneficiaries.

Can a Hermosa Beach, California Estate Administration Attorney Help?

If you are the administrator of an estate, and are not a legal and/or financial professional, you might encounter legal or tax issues with which you are unfamiliar. A Hermosa Beach, California attorney would be very helpful in such a situation.

Talk to a Wills, Trusts & Estates Law Attorney now!

Life in Hermosa Beach

Hermosa Beach is a city located in Los Angeles County, California. It has a population of about 19,000 and is known for its wonderful climate and beautiful beachfront location. It is home to many celebrities such as Carson Daly and Jimmy Kimmel due to its location and excellent residential homes.

The entire city of Hermosa Beach, California is marked by the beach culture. The beach area is perfect for beach recreational activities like surfing, paddleboarding, beach volleyball, and sunbathing. Sea breezes help to keep the region remarkably clear of smog and pollutants. The city holds many yearly events, the majority of which revolve around the beach scene. Some of these events include Shakespeare by the Sea, the International Surf Festival, and the Hermosa Ironman triathlon. Hermosa Beach also hosts the Hermosa Beach Film Festival, with screenings of short films held at the Hermosa Beach Playhouse.

Pier Avenue one of Hermosa Beach's main areas for dining, shopping, and night life. The Hermosa Beach Pier can be found at the end of Pier Avenue. Other places to visit in Hermosa Beach, California include Cypress Park, Fort Lots-o-Fun, and the city's skateboard park.

Lawyers in Hermosa Beach, California represent clients in a diverse range of legal topics. Hermosa Beach lawyers can provide much guidance and assistance when it comes to answering legal questions or representing clients in court.

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