Carmichael, California

Probate Lawyer Gary Hursh

Three Decades of Experience, Working for You

In California, the Probate Court oversees two important legal processes, Probate administration and conservatorships. After the death or incapacity of a loved one, you will likely face questions about the future. Since 1980, I have offered clients in Carmichael and the greater Sacramento area reliable and knowledgeable guidance during some of the most difficult times in their life.

At my firm, the Law Office of Gary Hursh, I work closely with my clients in probate administration and conservatorships. For the assistance of a dedicated Probate lawyer, contact me at 916-481-9426.

Understanding the Probate Administration Process

After the death of a loved one, there are many questions that family members and Executors have:

• What will happen to the estate?

• What is the Probate process?

• How long does the Probate process take?

• How much does it cost?

• Who is going to be the Executor?

• Does the Executor get paid?

• What if there is no Will?

With 38 years of experience practicing law, I know the importance of taking the time to understand your particular situation, your needs and objectives. It is my job to inform you about the Probate process and make the administration of the estate as streamlined as possible.

Due to court scheduling, it takes about five weeks to appoint the Executor after starting the Probate process. If emergency circumstances require it, immediate appointments may be possible.

If the deceased person has a Will, the Executor named in the Will is typically the person who will administer the estate. If the person died without a Will, an Administrator will be identified and appointed in accordance with California statutes.

My Role as Your Probate Attorney

I work with clients from beginning to end of the Probate process. I prepare the paperwork to initiate the process. I advise the Executor or Administrator throughout the process of administering the estate, including identifying assets, liquidating assets, accessing bank accounts, identifying and contacting heirs paying debts.

I have access to an extensive network of professionals to facilitate problem-solving and efficient estate administration. My network includes Real estate agents, Estate auction houses and Tax Advisors.

As an added convenience for out-of-state executors, or who cannot otherwise meet me in person or come to my office, I can handle your entire Probate administration matter over the phone. Contact me to learn more.

Conservatorships

For individuals or children, who can no longer take care of themselves because of a disability, injury from accident or age, a Conservator will act on their behalf. A Conservatorship is a legal mechanism that allows for someone to make financial and or medical decisions for the incapacitated person.

I work with clients who have concerns about Conservatorships including:

• What is a Conservatorship and do I need one?

• Do I need a "Conservatorship of the Estate" to address assets and finances or a "Conservatorship of the Person" to address day-to-day living decisions?

• Do I need both?

• What is the cost to set up a Conservatorship and how long does it take?

• What are my duties and responsibilities as Conservator?

• Does my situation call for a Special Needs Trust?

Appointing a Conservator

The appointment process by the Probate Court usually takes about two months. Appointing a Conservator is a longer and more complex process than appointing an Executor in Probate administration.

The Probate Court will send an investigator to interview the Conservatee and examine the person's condition and living situation. This investigation is designed to help the Court determine whether a Conservatorship is warranted

What You Can Expect From Me

I will spend time to understand and carefully evaluate your circumstances and help you know what to expect. I will prepare the necessary paperwork to initiate the process and appear in court on your behalf. I will guide you on your duties and responsibilities under California law as a Conservator, including what you can and cannot do. I will assist you with the reporting and formal accounting requirements to be submitted to the court.

To schedule a consultation with experienced probate attorney Gary Hursh, contact me at 916-481-9426. Conveniently located next to the Carmichael Post Office, office hours are 9-5. Hospital or nursing home visits are also available by appointment.