Estate Planning -

Generally, if someone dies without a will, trust, or other provision for the distribution of your money and property , that money and property will be distributed according to California law. This is a complicated process, but essentially the state will determine who gets the property based on their relationship with you.

One way you can control the distribution of your property after death is through a will. But even though your will can provide information on how to distribute your assets, your beneficiaries or a named executor wills till need court process called probate to distribute your property. You can also use a will to decide on the care of your minor children.

Finally, you can arrange for the distribution of your property through a living trust. Whether or not to create trust is a personal decision and you should consider whether you need to hire a lawyer or other estate planning professional. However, be aware that not every person offering to set up a trust is trustworthy.

Source: Bob Bonta; Attorney General. https://oag.ca.gov/consumers/general/estate-financal