Probate Overview

Probate is the process by which an individual's financial affairs are brought to a close after death. The process can take several months or several years depending on the complexity.  The process of probate involves the following: 

1. Locating and authenticating a will
2. Identifying heirs and creditors
3. Inventorying property and assets
4. Transferring property and bank accounts to the administrator or representative.
5. Filing state, federal and estate tax returns
6. Defending the will against contests
7. Paying the estate’s debts and creditor claims
8. Distributing assets as required by the will or by intestate succession 

From Sebastopol, the Law Offices of Graden Tapley represents clients throughout Sonoma County, including Santa Rosa, Cotati, Healdsburg, Petaluma, Rohnert Park, Santa Rosa, and Windsor.