Probate Attorney Serving Arcadia and the San Gabriel Valley

At Hedtke Law Group, we work closely with individuals and families throughout Arcadia, Pasadena, San Marino, Temple City, Duarte, and Altadena, providing clear guidance on probate, probate avoidance, estate administration, and estate planning. Our approach focuses on education, transparency, and practical legal solutions tailored to each client’s situation.

Whether you live in Arcadia, Alhambra, Monterey Park, or Rosemead, our firm helps you understand your options and make informed decisions that protect your assets and your family.

What Is Probate in California?

Probate is the court-supervised legal process that takes place after a person passes away. It involves validating a will, identifying and appraising assets, paying outstanding debts and taxes, and distributing property according to the will or California law.

Families across Arcadia, Pasadena, and San Marino often seek the guidance of an experienced probate attorney to ensure the process is handled efficiently and in compliance with California probate laws.

Probate Avoidance Options for Arcadia-Area Families

Probate is required when assets are not properly planned for in advance. If a person dies without a will (known as intestate), California statutes determine how the estate is distributed, which may not align with personal wishes.

Many clients from Temple City, Duarte, Irwindale, and East San Gabriel choose probate avoidance strategies for the following reasons:

The Cost of Probate in California

Probate can be costly due to court fees, statutory procedures, and legal expenses. Even relatively straightforward probate cases in California often cost several thousand dollars, while more complex estates may cost significantly more. In many cases, attorney fees range between 3% and 5% of the estate’s value.

By comparison, establishing a revocable living trust is often far more cost-effective. Our probate attorneys regularly help families in Arcadia, Monterey Park, and Alhambra explore trust-based planning to reduce or avoid probate altogether.

How Long Probate Takes in Arcadia and Nearby Cities

Probate is not a fast process. While the shortest cases may take six months, most probate matters in Los Angeles County, including Arcadia, Pasadena, and Rosemead, typically take 9 to 12 months or longer.

During probate, access to assets is restricted, and court approval is required for most actions. In contrast, successor trustees managing a trust can usually access assets immediately, without court supervision—one reason many families in San Marino and Kinneloa Mesa prefer probate avoidance planning.

Probate Is a Public Court Process

Probate proceedings are public record. Anyone can access probate files, which often include:

• The deceased person’s will

• A list of heirs and beneficiaries

• A detailed inventory of assets

• Court filings and petitions

Clients in Altadena, East San Gabriel, and Pasadena frequently choose revocable living trusts to keep their financial and family matters private.

What Happens If You Die in California Without a Will?

Dying without a will—called dying intestate—means your estate will be distributed according to California law rather than your personal wishes. While the statutory distribution may work in some cases, it often creates delays, additional costs, and unintended outcomes.

Proper estate planning allows families throughout Arcadia, Temple City, and Duarte to maintain control and avoid unnecessary court involvement.

What Is a Power of Attorney?

A power of attorney authorizes a trusted person to make decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. This is a key part of a comprehensive estate plan.

Common types include:

• Health Care Power of Attorney – Medical decisions

• Financial Power of Attorney – Financial and legal decisions

Clients from Monterey Park, Alhambra, and Rosemead often include these documents to ensure continuity and protection during unexpected events.

When Does an Estate Have to Go Through Probate Court?

Unless steps have been taken to avoid probate—such as placing assets into a trust—probate is typically required before property can be distributed. Probate may involve administering a will or handling the estate of someone who passed away without one.

While probate is manageable, advance planning can significantly simplify the process for families across Arcadia and the greater San Gabriel Valley.

How Long Does Probate Take in Arcadia, CA?

Probate timelines depend on court schedules, estate complexity, and creditor claims. At a minimum, probate requires notice periods and a four-month window for creditor claims. Most estates in Arcadia, Pasadena, and surrounding communities are resolved within six months to one year, though disputes or debt can extend the process.

Serving Arcadia and Surrounding Communities

Hedtke Law Group proudly serves clients throughout:
Arcadia, Azusa, Pasadena, Alhambra, Altadena, Monterey Park, Rosemead, Temple City, Duarte, Irwindale, East San Gabriel, San Marino, and Kinneloa Mesa.

Speak With a Probate Lawyer in Arcadia, CA

If you are dealing with probate, estate administration, or want to explore probate avoidance options, working with a knowledgeable local attorney can make a meaningful difference.

Contact Hedtke Law Group today to schedule a free consultation with a trusted probate attorney serving Arcadia and the surrounding San Gabriel Valley communities.