Whittier Estate Planning Attorney 

Helping Clients Protect Their Future for Over Four Decades

The Law Office of Mitchell A. Port has proudly represented families, individuals, and businesses during probate, tax controversy, trust administration and more. We understand how important legacy is to our clients and we work tirelessly to help them protect what matters most. 

Call our Whittier estate planning attorney at (310) 526-3433 to learn more.

Probate in California

In California, the deceased’s estate is processed through probate. During this process, the court will oversee the disbursement of assets to settle remaining debts. In some cases, if the deceased does not have a will the court must oversee how the administrator will manage the estate and how the assets remaining after paying off debt will be distributed. 

Probate may also help to decide whether a will is valid. If the deceased has a will, but the legality of it is questionable, the court may assess the will and agree to appoint a judicial officer who might mediate the terms with beneficiaries and family members. 

Probate Attorneys 

Our probate attorney has extensive experience with the probate system and can assist with a variety of legal matters including: 

• Locating probate and non-probate assets 
• Assisting with the sale of property 
• Ensuring property passes to the rightful heirs after all appropriate debts are paid 
• Preparing and filing all required documentation with the courts 
• Eliminating some or all of the creditors’ claims against the decedent’s property 

Disputes over the will and distribution of assets can complicate the probate process. Not only is probate a complicate legal process, but it is also an emotional time for the loved ones of the deceased. The Law Office of Mitchell A. Port understands the importance of sound counsel backed by experience and compassion so we can assist clients during this difficult time.

Estate Planning

Estate planning is legal protection from probate for a person’s assets. Creation of an estate plan can happen during any phase of life – not just after retirement. A good estate plan should include provisions for assets, beneficiaries, and long-term health care if necessary. 

Within an estate plan, the following may be included: 

• Will: A will outlines how the estate is distributed after death. Not only is a will the roadmap for the estate, but it can also prevent asset loss during probate and in some cases nominate guardianship of minor children. 
• Power of Attorney: Naming a power of attorney in advance ensures that the right person is in charge of major end of life decisions like your finances and more. 
• Trusts: An estate plan may include trusts which are used to manage assets during the grantor’s lifetime and protect the assets for the beneficiary. 
• Advance Health Care Directive: An advance health care directive is a designated role that involves making critical health care decisions and preemptively deciding how certain health situations are handled. For example, if a person has a terminal disease, they may need an advance health care directive in case they are no longer able to make decisions on their own.