At Voorhees Law Group PC, we meet many families who have misconceptions about estate planning and probate. One of the biggest myths we hear is that estate planning is only for the wealthy, or that probate court is something only a few people will ever have to deal with.
The truth? If you live in California and don’t have a solid estate plan, your family could end up in probate court, even if you don’t have millions in assets.
Let’s debunk some common myths we hear about estate planning and probate:
- Myth 1: Probate only happens if you’re wealthy.
Probate is the legal process that occurs when someone dies without a will or with an incomplete estate plan. Even if you don’t own a mansion, your family could still end up in probate court, dealing with costly and time-consuming legal proceedings. - Myth 2: I don’t need a trust if I have a will.
While a will is important, it won’t protect your assets from probate. A trust, on the other hand, can help you avoid probate entirely, allowing your family to receive your assets without delays or extra costs. - Myth 3: Probate isn’t a big deal.
In California, probate can be a lengthy and expensive process. Without the right planning, your family could spend months—or even years—working through the court system. The good news is that with proper estate planning, you can avoid probate altogether.
At Voorhees Law Group PC, we specialize in estate planning and probate issues, helping California families navigate the system with ease. If you want to avoid probate and protect your family, request a consultation today and let us help you create a plan that works for you.