This step-by-step guide has saved thousands of readers thousands of dollars! If you need to wrap up the affairs of a deceased family member or friend in California, you can save attorney fees by handling the probate process yourself. How to Probate an Estate in California supplies all the instructions, explanations and support you need. You may even be able to handle the whole process by mail, without setting foot in the courthouse. Learn how to: read a will determine who inherits property if there is no will handle probate paperwork collect life insurance and other benefits transfer community property to a surviving spouse or domestic partner pay bills and taxes distribute property left through trusts The completely updated 18th edition explains the latest laws, estate taxes and forms for the current year.