Glendale Probate, Estate & Tax Attorney

Trusted Legal Counsel in Glendale, CA & Los Angeles County

Planning for the future or handling the complex legal processes of probate and tax matters can feel overwhelming. Mitchell A. Port, a trusted Glendale probate, estate, and tax attorney, provides personalized legal solutions tailored to your needs. With years of experience in estate planning, probate administration, and tax law, Mitchell A. Port has helped countless individuals and families protect their assets and navigate sensitive situations with confidence.

At the Law Office of Mitchell A. Port, we can create an estate plan that safeguards assets for your heirs, protect your ability to qualify for Medicaid, and reduce the stress of your family after you’re gone.

Attorney Mitch Port also has unique experience that he can bring to bear on any tax dispute or controversy, whether related to personal or business taxes. 

He earned his Juris Doctor from Southwestern University School of Law and his LL.M from the University of San Diego School of Law. He graduated with a B.A. in Political Science from the University of California at Los Angeles. 

Comprehensive Legal Services for Probate, Estate, and Tax Matters

Whether you are addressing the distribution of a loved one’s estate, creating a will, or resolving tax disputes, Mitchell A. Port offers a wide range of services to simplify the process and secure your financial future.

Call our Glendale probate and estate law firm to help you prepare for the future. Call (310) 526-3433 to schedule a free phone consultation with a lawyer near you.

Effective Guidance for Probate Administration in Glendale, CA

If you are the personal representative of an estate, probate can be a convoluted and challenging process. Certain processes and timelines must be followed. Probate can be a big job, especially if you have full-time work and other responsibilities.

If the decedent has real estate and personal property valued at more than $166,250, probate may be unavoidable. 

We know how to navigate the complexities of probate. Not only can we help ease your frustration, but we’ll also investigate and value assets and notify any creditors. Our Glendale probate lawyers will locate named heirs and can mitigate conflicts among family members. 

Probate Services in Glendale

When a loved one passes, the probate process ensures their assets are distributed according to their will or state law if no will exists. Unfortunately, probate can be time-consuming and emotionally taxing. Mitchell A. Port assists executors, heirs, and beneficiaries by managing every aspect of probate, including:

• Filing the will with the court
• Identifying and valuing assets
• Resolving debts and liabilities
• Distributing assets to beneficiaries
• Handling probate litigation

Do All Estates Require Probate?

Not all estates go through probate. For example, assets held in a living trust or joint ownership with rights of survivorship often bypass the probate process. Additionally, California law allows simplified probate for estates valued below a certain threshold.

Comprehensive Counsel for Estate Planning

Having a will does not always equate to a comprehensive estate plan. Other tools are often necessary to protect assets for your heirs, avoid probate as much as possible, and establish your wishes should be become incapacitated.

In addition to a legally binding will, estate plans can also include the following:

• Living Trust. Trusts can hold a wide variety of assets: real estate, investments, collectibles, vehicles, and more. Trusts help to shield assets from creditors and transfer the property to your heirs. Revocable living trusts can be changed or revoked during your lifetime. Irrevocable trusts can be changed but offer stronger tax and asset protection. 
• Durable Power of Attorney. There are different types of POA that are appropriate for specific situations. A general power of attorney has broad authority to make decisions for you, except for those involving your health care. A limited power of attorney has specific authority in defined situations such as signing transactional documents when you are out of town.
• Advance Health Care Directive. This document stipulates your health care preferences, including whether you want advanced measures to maintain life and whether you want to donate organs. The document is followed by physicians and family members. 

After understanding your wishes, other steps can be taken to meet your goals. We can establish a conservatorship (or contest a will), who can make decisions on your behalf. If you have minor children, you should name a legal guardian in case you become unable to care for them. 

A special needs trust holds assets for a disabled person without the assets being considered their property. This type of trust is important so they can continue to qualify for state and federal benefits. Our Glendale estate planning lawyers can help you determine which tool is right for your circumstances to create a sound California estate plan.

Exceptional Insight for Tax Controversies

Income taxes, property taxes, sales taxes, corporate taxes, franchise taxes, capital gains taxes, and the list goes on. There are undoubtedly many types of taxes, which means there are many ways you could find yourself in a tax controversy. 

From not filing taxes properly to tax litigation in California, let us unravel your circumstances. Whether the issue is related to a personal or business issue, we can address back taxes, negotiate comprises with the IRS, fight property seizures, represent your best interests in IRS appeals, and more. Our Glendale tax attorneys knowledge encompasses tax law on both the state and federal levels. 

Tax laws are complex and ever-changing. Whether you’re facing an IRS audit, need help resolving tax debt, or want to structure your estate to minimize tax liabilities, Mitchell A. Port provides expert guidance in all aspects of tax law, including:

• IRS Audit Defense: Representing clients in audits to ensure fair treatment and minimize penalties.
• Tax Debt Resolution: Negotiating payment plans or offers in compromise to help clients settle their tax liabilities.
• Estate Tax Planning: Structuring your estate to reduce or eliminate federal estate taxes.
• Business Tax Consulting: Advising small business owners on tax strategies to maximize profitability.
• Past-Due Returns: Helping clients file delinquent tax returns and address outstanding balances.

Mitchell A. Port’s in-depth knowledge of federal and California tax laws ensures your financial interests are protected. Tax issues often intersect with estate planning and probate matters, making our dual expertise invaluable in achieving your financial goals.

Why Choose the Law Office of Mitchell A. Port for Your Legal Needs?

At the Law Office of Mitchell A. Port, we understand that navigating the complexities of probate, estate, and tax law can be overwhelming. Our commitment to providing personalized legal solutions ensures that each client receives tailored guidance that meets their unique circumstances. Here are several reasons why clients in Los Angeles and Glendale trust us with their legal matters:

• Experienced Professionals: Our team brings years of experience in handling a wide range of probate and estate issues, ensuring you receive knowledgeable advice and representation.
• Client-Centered Approach: We prioritize our clients' needs and concerns, taking the time to listen and understand your situation before crafting a strategic legal plan.
• Transparent Communication: We believe in keeping our clients informed every step of the way. You can expect prompt responses to your inquiries and clear explanations of your options.
• Proven Track Record: Our successful outcomes in complex legal matters speak for themselves. We have helped numerous clients achieve their goals efficiently and effectively.
• Community Commitment: As a local firm, we are dedicated to serving the Los Angeles community and are proud to support local initiatives and events.

Choosing the right attorney can make all the difference. Let us help you navigate your legal journey with confidence. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Contact our Glendale probate, estate, and tax attorney to help you prepare for your future. Call (310) 526-3433 to schedule a free phone consultation with a lawyer near you.