California Wills & Trusts/Litigation Law Firm

Experienced California trusts and estates & wills attorney
With 40 years of experience, wills and trusts attorney Dennis M. Sullivan possesses in-depth knowledge about all aspects of trusts and estate issues, including:
  • Estate planning
  • Estate tax issues
  • Executorship duties
  • Guardianship
  • Living wills

  • Living trusts
  • Probate
  • Probate and will disputes
  • Wills drafting and execution

Drafting your living will and last will and testament

A will is essential at every stage of your life. Your living will sets the parameters for medical intervention should you become incapacitated. This assures that when you are most vulnerable, your wishes will be honored.

Your last will provides the opportunity to distribute your property, establish care for your children and otherwise express your wishes upon your death. A will is necessary if you intend to leave property to a person or entity other than a blood relative, such as a domestic partner, a friend or a charity. If you die without a will, the court determines how your property is distributed, who cares for your children and even what happens to your pet – making decisions that might not reflect your desires.
The Law Offices of Dennis M. Sullivan can draft valid wills that ensure your intentions are honored.

Changing your will

As your life changes, so might your estate plan. You may need to update your will throughout your life. They draft valid codicils that address changes in your financial situation, marital status, number of children, philanthropic interests and general lifestyle decisions.

Probate

They apply their extensive knowledge about California probate court to guide you through the complex process of probating a will. They assist executors in all steps of the process, including:

  • Creating a plan of action to probate the estate fairly and expeditiously
  • Filing the will with the probate court in California
  • Closing and opening bank accounts
  • Transferring assets from the deceased to the estate

  • Valuating the estate
  • Managing and liquidating assets as appropriate
  • Paying taxes and other debts
  • Locating beneficiaries
  • Hiring professionals and experts when necessary

Probate disputes

When disputes occur between beneficiaries, they successfully represent your interests. They have the extensive knowledge to challenge invalid wills or to defend valid wills against the improper assertions of dissatisfied beneficiaries. They can negotiate between beneficiaries to preserve relationships or fastidiously pursue your rights in court when necessary.

Contact a meticulous estate planning lawyer at the Law Offices of Dennis M. Sullivan.

Call the Law Offices of Dennis M. Sullivan at 415-982-5454 or contact them online to schedule an appointment.