Probate

Probate Attorneys Helping Clients with Probate Estates in Los Angeles and Orange County

At Wickers, Wickers & Admans, LLP, our experienced probate and estate attorneys serve clients in Torrance, Los Angeles County, and Orange County, California. We assist with all aspects of estate and trust matters, including probate administration, estate litigation, conservatorships, guardianships, and trust planning.

Each of the Partners Christina M. Wickers Herman and Alexandra L. Admans, have been named on the SuperLawyers Rising Stars list as a top rated Trusts and Estates Attorneys in Southern California.  The Founding Partner Rodney W. Wickers has retired.  

Our firm represents clients in complex and simple probate estates, trust administration, will and trust disputes, and appellate advocacy when necessary.

Family dynamics often influence probate matters. We prioritize cooperative solutions when possible and pursue strategic legal remedies when disputes arise. Our goal is to help clients make informed decisions that protect their interests and achieve resolution.

Our firm represents clients in complex and simple probate estates, trust administration, will disputes, and appellate advocacy when necessary.

Family dynamics often influence probate matters. We prioritize cooperative solutions when possible and pursue strategic legal remedies when disputes arise. Our goal is to help clients make informed decisions that protect their interests and achieve efficient resolutions.

What Is Probate?

Probate is the court-supervised legal process that transfers a decedent’s assets to heirs and beneficiaries. The probate court ensures that:

  • Valid wills are honored

  • Debts and expenses are resolved

  • Assets are distributed according to law

  • Estate administration follows court procedures

Probate cases are heard in the appropriate division of the Superior Court of California, determined by the location of the estate and the decedent’s residence.

How Long Does Probate Take?

Probate administration typically takes approximately one to two years, though timelines vary depending on estate complexity and asset issues. The court schedules status conferences to monitor progress and may request updates from the executor or administrator.

Estates involving multiple assets, disputes, or out-of-state property may require additional time. Our attorneys work to streamline the process and address issues efficiently.

Probate Cases and Emergency Court Orders in Trusts

In some circumstances, it is necessary to obtain special instructions under Probate Code §17200 or emergency (ex parte) orders from the court, especially at the beginning of a Trust Litigation. These orders may address urgent matters such as:

  • Asset preservation

  • Fiduciary compliance

  • Immediate court direction

  • Resolution of time-sensitive disputes

  • Suspension of Trustees

Our firm prepares and files the necessary paperwork and represents clients in hearings before the Los Angeles Superior Court and Orange County Superior Court to obtain appropriate relief.

Estate Planning to Protect Your Legacy

Proactive estate planning helps preserve your intentions and provides clarity for loved ones. A comprehensive estate plan may include:

  • Wills and trusts to direct asset distribution

  • Durable powers of attorney for financial decision-making

  • Health care directives to document medical preferences

  • Asset protection strategies to minimize disputes

A durable power of attorney allows a trusted individual to act on your behalf if you become unable to manage financial matters. A health care directive communicates your medical preferences to healthcare providers and family members, ensuring your wishes are respected.

Estate planning empowers families to navigate challenging circumstances with legal clarity and confidence.

Businesses Within Probate Estates and Trusts

When an estate or trust includes an operating business, continued management or sale may be required. Our attorneys assist with:

  • Obtaining a business valuation and disposition strategies

  • Continuation of operations during administration

  • Contract review and transactional guidance

  • Integration of business objectives with estate planning

Coordinated legal and business solutions help preserve value and achieve long-term objectives.

Elder Abuse and Estate Litigation

We advocate for clients in cases involving:

California law protects vulnerable individuals from exploitation. Elder abuse claims may invalidate wrongful transfers and provide remedies for financial or physical harm. Timely legal action is often essential to preserve rights and evidence.

Our firm represents clients in probate and trust litigation, pursuing resolutions through negotiation and, when necessary, trial and appellate advocacy.

Why Choose Our Firm

Estate and probate matters require specialized knowledge and strategic representation. At Wickers, Wickers & Admans, LLP, we provide:

  • Experienced probate and trust representation

  • Personalized legal strategies

  • Advocacy in court proceedings

  • Solutions tailored to client objectives

  • Compassionate and clear guidance in difficult circumstances

Our attorneys help clients navigate probate, trust administration, and estate disputes to protect assets and achieve meaningful outcomes.

Speak With an Attorney

We represent clients throughout Torrance, the South Bay, Los Angeles County, and Orange County in probate, will and trust planning and litigation matters.

📞 Call today for clarity before conflict: (310) 540-2520

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