How to Avoid Probate and Death Taxes

The first step of probate is when the court decides whether the will is invalid or not. If it is deemed invalid, the probate court applies the state inheritance laws to the estate. If the will is deemed valid, the court then oversees the process of settling the will. This includes overseeing the distribution of assets (including payment of state and federal taxes), hearing contested claims by creditors and others seeking to collect from the estate, deciding which possessions are subject to estate administration, and supervision of many more actions that may have even been specified within the will.

Probate can lead to large taxation of your estate and unwelcomed assistance in the distribution of your possessions. To avoid these death taxes and the long process of probate, it is important to set up a trust along with your will. The right lawyer can set up solid trusts that prevent probate and allow you to pass on your possessions free of estate taxes.

Estate Planning is extremely important in ensuring that your estate and belongings are passed on to whom you want and how you want. Setting up a trust is invaluable and it's the only way to make sure your family and friends avoid probate and death taxes.

Walters & Ward, A Professional Corporation, specializes in Estate Planning in San Diego. For more information about California wills and trusts" or to speak with an experienced , San Diego trust attorney, please visit www.walterstrustinfo.com.