probate in calif.

[paljoeyj]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)?
Big question on probate in calif. Husband died suddenly with no will.?
Does the spouse still take over all property without any need for probate? Are there any specific steps required to proove no probate is required? Wife is in dire need of money. total property value would be over 100,000, does this figure mean total real property or just real estate? How can the spouse get access to the money to pay bills and living expenses. this could drive someone crazy.

 

[Dandy Don]

What is the nature of the property? She or a probate attorney she hires needs to open up probate so that the executor of the estate can start gaining control of the assets.

 

[tecate]

I disagree with Dandy Don. There is no probate for property passing to a surviving spouse unless the surviving spouse wants one. Is there any separate property?