The Law Office of Dave Karlinsky handles probate proceedings, and also advises trustees and beneficiaries in connection with trust administration.

The purpose of probate is to administer the estate of someone who is recently deceased – collecting his or her property, paying debts and taxes, and distributing the estate according to his or her wishes. Probate is a formal proceeding, supervised by a court. I help families navigate this process.

Trust administration usually takes place with minimal court oversight, or none whatsoever. Even so, trustees must comply with strict duties under California law, and in certain circumstances can even be held personally liable if they fail to do so. I advise trustees and beneficiaries concerning their rights and obligations, with the goal of preventing problems before they arise.