We are pleased to announce that John Palley, our lead probate attorney, has been chosen to be the lead speaker at the April 18th IPE seminar on the Probate Process from Start to Finish.  The seminar will take place at the Sheraton Grand on J Street in Sacramento. The brief outline is below. If you would like Mr. Palley’s complete outline please email us.

HOW TO FILE AN ESTATE IN PROBATE COURT 9-9:45 John Palley

Distinctions Between the Modest and Larger Estate
The Estate Timetable and What Needs to Be Done
Steps for Proving the Will
Steps for Challenging the Will

WORKING WITH EXECUTORS AND ADMINISTRATORS 9:45-10:30 John Palley

Duties of Executors or Administrators During the Probate Process
Paralegal Contact With Executors or Administrators
How Misconduct and/or Removal of Executors or Administrators is Handled
Compensation
Special Administration
Duties of the Attorney for the Executor – Who is the Client?

HOW TO PREPARE AND FILE THE INVENTORY 10:45-11:45

Preparing the Inventory – What Every Paralegal Needs to Know
Statutory Requirements
Notice
Working With the Attorney to Collect, Maintain and Manage Assets
How to Successfully Solve Common Inventory Problems

ADMINISTRATION OF THE ESTATE 12:45-1:30

Dealing With Creditors’ Claims
Disclaimers
Assisting With the Estate Cash Management
Insolvency
Preparing Partial Distributions

ETHICAL PERILS IN THE PROBATE PROCESS 1:30-2:30

Distinguishing Between Privileged and Non-Privileged Communications
When the Client Asks for Legal Advice – Knowing How to Say “No”
Protecting Your Firm From Malpractice Actions – Tools You Can Use to Meet Deadlines

DEALING WITH SPOUSE’S ELECTIVE SHARES 2:45-3:30

Homestead Allowance
Dower and Curtesy
Spousal Rights and Personalty
Rights of Election
Procedures

UNDERSTANDING THE LAWS OF INTESTACY 3:30-4
CLOSING THE ESTATE 4-4:30

Tips for Assisting With Final Accounting
Preparing the Distribution of the Estate to Beneficiaries
Discharge of the Fiduciary