What Our Clients Near Hawthorne, CA Say About Us
Had a great experience with this firm. They provided me with a wealth of information when I needed help with my grandmother’s estate and really went the extra mile to make sure I was well informed. It really made a difficult situation easier.
Kristy C
Distinguished Hawthorne, California Probate Lawyers
Resolving Conflicts & Protecting Your Family Bonds
Trusted Lawyers For Your Legal Needs
Probate Administration
Probate Litigation
Trust Administration
Trust Litigation
Estate Planning
What Happens If You Die Without a Will in Hawthorne, CA?
When someone passes away without a will in California, the state steps in to determine how their assets are distributed. This legal process—known as intestate succession—can lead to unexpected outcomes, delays, and family conflict. For residents of Hawthorne, CA, working with experienced probate lawyers is a key step in ensuring that your wishes are respected and your loved ones are protected.
California’s Intestate Succession Laws
In California, intestate succession laws dictate how an estate is divided when there is no will. The court will first appoint an administrator—typically a close relative—to manage the estate and oversee the probate process. From there, assets are distributed based on a fixed hierarchy.
If the deceased was married, the spouse usually receives the largest share. Children are next in line, followed by parents, siblings, and more distant relatives. However, if there are no clearly defined heirs, the process becomes more complex, potentially drawing in relatives who barely knew the deceased—or even leading the estate to escheat to the state.
This lack of control can fuel disagreements between family members, delay the resolution of the estate, and increase the emotional and financial toll on those left behind.
Reasons To Avoid Intestacy
Dying without a will leaves your estate in the hands of the state, and that comes with serious risks. One of the most common outcomes is probate litigation, where family members challenge how assets are divided or dispute the court’s appointment of an administrator.
Without a will or trust, you lose the ability to decide who receives your property, who manages your estate, or even who cares for minor children. Intestacy offers no flexibility—it follows a rigid formula that doesn’t take personal relationships or family dynamics into account.
For families in Hawthorne, this can mean long delays, court costs, and added emotional strain. By working with probate lawyers who understand California’s inheritance laws, you can put a plan in place that reflects your true intentions and minimizes future conflict.
Don’t Leave It To Chance—Contact Los Angeles Probate Attorneys
The absence of a will can leave your family vulnerable to legal battles and uncertainty. If you live in or near Hawthorne, now is the time to take action. Whether you’re navigating probate after a loved one’s passing or looking to create a clear estate plan, our probate lawyers are here to guide you every step of the way.
At Los Angeles Probate Attorneys, we help individuals and families take control of their future through comprehensive estate planning and probate support. Don’t let California’s intestate succession laws decide for you.
Call us today or visit our website to schedule a consultation—because your legacy should be yours to define.
