Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in California

My mother died this month. For the last 4 decades both her and my father have lived in a house that my mother inherited from her parents. My mother has always been the only one whose name appears on the title of the house. My mother died without a will. My father has now filed DE-221 Spousal or Domestic Partner Property Petition to try and gain complete ownership of the home. (My father has money problems) What can I do to at least see that this house is divided to the Intestate rules?


Asked on 4/27/10, 6:30 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Michele Cusack Pollak & Cusack

You must file an objection or the petition will be granted automatically. Present evidence that the property was your mother's separate property and (if there was never a mortgage while your parents were married) you should get a share (% depends on if siblings and how many). Probate of the estate may be necessary. You should consult an attorney.

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Answered on 5/02/10, 7:33 pm
Jonathan Reich De Castro, West, Chodorow, Glickfeld & Nass, Inc.

Your question presents a number of potentially complicated issues. You should consult with an attorney sooner rather than later.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: The above response is not intended to, and does not, create an attorney-client, fiduciary or other confidential relationship with the responder. Neither does it constitute the providing of legal advice or services or the giving of a legal opinion by the responder. Such a relationship can only be created, and legal advice and/or legal services provided, pursuant to a written agreement with the responder. Accordingly, no obligations of any kind are assumed with respect to any matter or question presented. It should also be noted that legal issues are often time sensitive and legal rights may be lost or compromised if you do not act in a timely fashion.

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Answered on 5/03/10, 9:23 am


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