Estate administration is the formal process of settling a loved one’s affairs after they pass away. While “Estate Planning” is the preparation, Estate Administration is the execution. This phase involves identifying assets, paying final debts, and ensuring that the remaining property reaches the rightful heirs or beneficiaries according to California law.
At the Law Offices of W. Steven Chou, we act as a steady guide for families across Orange and Los Angeles counties. With over 25 years of experience, Attorney Steven Chou helps executors, trustees, and grieving families navigate the various legal “entities” of administration – from court-supervised probate to private trust settlements – with transparency and care.
In California, the “path” an estate takes is determined by how the assets were owned and the total value of the decedent’s property. We help you identify which of these three administration entities applies to your situation:
Whether you are an Executor, an Administrator, or a Successor Trustee, you have been placed in a “Fiduciary” role. This is the highest legal standard of care. You are responsible for:
Attorney W. Steven Chou specializes in Executor & Administrator Representation, providing the professional oversight necessary to protect you from personal liability and family disputes.
Administration often reveals surprises, such as a family home that was meant for a trust but never actually deeded to it. We specialize in Heggstad Petitions (Section 850), a unique legal entity that allows us to move “forgotten” assets back into a trust, often saving the estate from an unnecessary and costly year of probate.
Estate administration is a marathon, not a sprint. As a bilingual firm, we provide all administrative guidance in both English and Chinese. This allows Attorney Chou to clearly explain complex 2026 legal updates to every family member, ensuring that cultural values and legal requirements are perfectly aligned.
We serve families in San Marino, Cerritos, Newport Beach, and throughout the region with a commitment to transparent fees and effective results.
If you have recently lost a loved one, the “to-do” list can feel insurmountable. Let us help you organize the estate, understand your duties, and protect your family’s legacy.
Are you unsure which legal path you need to take to settle your loved one’s estate?
Disclaimer:
The information provided on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be construed as legal advice for any individual or for any situation or case. The information provided is neither intended to create an attorney-client privilege, nor does viewing this website create an attorney-client privilege.