Why Do Families Choose Debbie Babb Law for Probate?

Most families don’t realize how painful “standard” probate can be until months have passed, phone calls go unanswered, and court dates keep sliding. Debbie built her firm to be the antidote to that experience.

The typical probate experience starts with a quick meeting and a fee agreement, then drips paperwork piecemeal. Every status update triggers a surprise invoice, and a single typo can push the hearing back weeks or even months.

What happens with us is very different:

• White‑glove guidance from Day One. You leave the intake call with a crystal‑clear timeline, next steps, and a direct cell number for your point of contact.

• Systems that prevent court delays. Proprietary checklists, triple‑checks, and a dedicated “stage owner” slash continuances and keep judges happy.

• Relationship‑driven service. Real humans know your story, return calls the same business day, and care as much about releasing your inheritance as you do.

• Flat, transparent fees. Statutory attorney fees come from the estate at closing, not from your wallet today, and every out‑of‑pocket cost is quoted up front.

• Tech‑powered, people‑first. Secure portals, e‑signatures, and text reminders keep things simple while our team focuses on the human beings behind every file.
  

The result: families finish probate faster, with fewer headaches, and with relationships still intact.

Do I really have to open probate?

Yes—if probate‑able assets exceed $184,500 or real estate is titled solely in the decedent’s name. A will by itself does not avoid court.

What if there’s no will?

The court appoints an Administrator, and California’s intestacy statutes decide who inherits. The process is almost identical to a will probate.

How soon after death should we file?

There is no legal deadline, but delays can freeze bank accounts, stall real‑estate sales, and rack up tax penalties. Filing within 30–45 days of receiving the death certificate is best.

What does the personal representative actually do?

Secure property, notify heirs and creditors, inventory assets, file taxes, pay debts, obtain court permission to distribute, file a final accounting, and close the estate. We handle the filings—you make the decisions.

How long will it take?

Statewide court backlogs place most probates in the 12‑ to 18‑month range. With organized paperwork and cooperative heirs, we often finish near the shorter end of that window.

Who pays the lawyer and court costs?

Statutory attorney fees, executor commissions, and most expenses come from estate funds at closing. You may need to advance a modest deposit for filing fees or bond premiums, but you are reimbursed later.

Can we sell the house before probate is finished?

Usually yes. With court approval or under the Independent Administration of Estates Act, real‑estate sales can proceed mid‑probate. We guide you through every notice requirement so escrow stays on schedule.

What if a relative lives out of state or abroad?

Electronic notices, remote signatures, and digital consents are acceptable. Physical appearances are rarely required—we coordinate everything online.

My sibling is contesting the will—now what?

We file a response, gather evidence, and may pursue mediation. Early engagement often resolves disputes without drawn‑out litigation.

Do all assets go through probate?

No. Assets in a trust, held in joint tenancy, or with valid beneficiary designations (life insurance, retirement accounts) pass outside probate. We map assets on Day One so you know exactly what is in and what is out.

What documents should I gather right now?

Death certificate, original will, trust papers, the last six months of bank and brokerage statements, real‑estate deeds, vehicle titles, and a list of debts. Providing these early can shave weeks off the timeline.

Why not just use a DIY probate kit?

One missed creditor notice or valuation mistake can void sales, trigger personal liability, and add months. Professional guidance typically saves money through faster court approvals and fewer errors.

Ready for Clarity and Peace of Mind?

Tap “Schedule Your Free Consultation.” We’ll turn uncertainty into a step‑by‑step plan so you can move forward, honor your loved one, and protect family relationships.