What Kobe Bryant Taught Us About California Probate and Estate Planning

By Sandra McCarthy|September 10th, 2020|Estate Planning|

When Kobe Bryant and his 13-year-old daughter Gianna died in a helicopter accident in January of 2020, fans grieved together and shared the lessons Kobe had taught them during his lifetime. However, as Kobe's wife Vanessa was forced to deal with settling her husband's estate, we learned yet another lesson from Kobe.

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What is a Bond in California Probate & How Do You Get One?

By Sandra McCarthy|September 6th, 2020|Probate|

Whether you are the executor of an estate or an interested party in a probate case, it's important to have a solid understanding of when and why the court may require a bond. In fact, even if a decedent identified in their will that they do not want bond to be posted, a judge may STILL require one! Read on to learn more about probate bonds and how they may affect you.

Forming a Limited Liability Company in California

By Sandra McCarthy|September 6th, 2020|Business|

Forming an LLC in California comes with tax benefits, increased liability protection, and more flexibility! Plus, the process is pretty simple, especially when you enlist the help of a registered legal document assistant like A People's Choice. We can help you draft and file all the required paperwork WITHOUT hiring an attorney. Call today to learn more.

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Stepparent Adoption of an Adult in California: Process and Forms

By Sandra McCarthy|September 1st, 2020|Adoption|

Once a child becomes an adult, they no longer require parental consent to agree to adoption by a stepparent. Thus, stepparents often adopt their adult children after a biological father refused to relinquish his parental rights over that child as a minor. Further, stepparent adoption is common for adults with life-long disabilities. Read on to learn about the process and forms required for stepparent adoption of an adult in California.

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California Divorce Residency Requirements: Where to File for Divorce in California

By Sandra McCarthy|August 31st, 2020|Family Law|

What are the residency requirements for filing divorce in California, and do you meet them? If not, what happens? Luckily, there are some simple solutions to typical residency requirement issues with California divorce. Read on to learn more, then contact A People's Choice to learn how we can assist you with completing and filing your divorce paperwork!

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Benefits of Establishing Paternity for California Mothers and Fathers

By Sandra McCarthy|August 30th, 2020|Family Law|

Why would a father want to establish paternity in California? Plus, what are the benefits to mothers when paternity is established? Read on to learn about California paternity laws including benefits, costs, and state-specific regulations. Then, contact A People's Choice for help creating and filing a petition!

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California Family Support Order in Divorce

By Sandra McCarthy|August 28th, 2020|Family Law|

If you're considering requesting court orders for child or spousal support during your California divorce, you may instead benefit from family support orders! These special orders combine child and spousal support into one payment. Plus, they come with tax benefits for the paying and receiving spouse. Read on to learn more to determine whether family support orders are right for you.

Understanding California’s Transfer on Death Deed

By Sandra McCarthy|August 26th, 2020|Estate Planning|

Are you considering using a transfer on death deed to transfer real property to a beneficiary after your death? Believe it or not, a TOD deed is not always the best option for estate planning. In fact, it works best for people without minor children, whose real estate is their only asset. Read on to learn more about whether a TOD deed is right for you.

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The Downside of Holographic Wills in California

By Sandra McCarthy|August 25th, 2020|Estate Planning|

Holographic wills are estate planning documents that the testator writes and signs completely by hand. Furthermore, testators are not required to sign these documents in front of witnesses. As a result, probate courts often deem holographic wills invalid! That said, if you choose to create a holographic will, there are several elements you MUST include to ensure your estate is distributed according to your wishes.

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California Probate Filing Checklist

By Sandra McCarthy|August 23rd, 2020|Probate|

The steps for filing probate in California can be overwhelming. In fact, the process can often take 8-10 months. To help out, we've provided a free California probate filing checklist for your personal use. For low-cost, non-attorney help with filing probate in California, contact A People’s Choice today.

Modifying Spousal Support in California: What You Need to Know

By Sandra McCarthy|August 23rd, 2020|Family Law|

If you're considering submitting an order for a change in spousal support, there are some factors you may need to prove beforehand. More specifically, to increase, reduce, or terminate support, you must prove a significant change in personal circumstances. These circumstances may include loss of a job, remarriage, or retirement.

A People’s Choice’s Ventura County Legal Document Services Can Help You Save Money!

By Sandra McCarthy|August 19th, 2020|Personal, California Courts|

Unfortunately, some clients discover our services only after spending countless hours in court and unnecessary funds on attorneys fees. Therefore, we always recommend extensively researching your options for legal assistance BEFORE hiring a lawyer. In fact, many routine legal matters can be handled on your own with some help from a legal document assistant! We can help you complete and file required paperwork for matters in which you're representing yourself with the California court system. Call today for more information!

California Rental Agreement Checklist

By Sandra McCarthy|August 18th, 2020|Estate Planning|

Written rental agreements are an important part of every landlord's legal protection. However, creating an agreement isn't enough. If you're a landlord in California, use this checklist to ensure your rental agreement has all the necessary clauses to protect you and your property. Then, make sure all tenants sign the written agreement and receive a copy.

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Effects of a Criminal Record in California – And How Expungement Can Help

By Sandra McCarthy|August 17th, 2020|California Courts|

Unfortunately, a criminal record can have a considerable negative impact on your future. For example, it may limit the jobs for which you're eligible, whether you may participate in jury duty, and maybe even where you can live! If you're interested in reclaiming your future and avoiding the stigma of a criminal record, consider filing for expungement.

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Calculating Child Support Under California Guidelines

By Sandra McCarthy|August 17th, 2020|Family Law|

Did you know that life circumstances such as income and even overtime have a direct effect on California guideline child support orders? In fact, the court uses this and other important information to determine which parent will have to pay, and how much. Read on to learn what else they consider when making support orders, and how your life situation will affect the outcome.

Dying Without a Will in California

By Sandra McCarthy|August 16th, 2020|Estate Planning|

Dying without a will in California subjects your estate to California intestate succession laws. In other words, the court will distribute your property depending on your living relatives. For example, your assets may go to a spouse or your children. However, if you want your property distributed in a certain manner, contact A People's Choice today. We can help you prepare a will or other estate planning documents to protect your assets upon your death.

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How a California Durable Power of Attorney Can Help You Plan for the Future

By Sandra McCarthy|August 16th, 2020|Estate Planning|

Did you know that a durable power of attorney is different from a power of attorney document? Believe it or not, a California durable power of attorney helps you plan for your future under different circumstances. Read on to learn more about the benefits of a durable power of attorney, what it means, and how A People's Choice can assist with your estate planning needs.

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How to Dissolve a Corporation in California

By Sandra McCarthy|August 13th, 2020|Business|

Considering closing, or dissolving, your California corporation? Look no further! In this article, we outline the steps required to dissolve your corporation and list the legal documents you'll need to complete and file with the Secretary of State. Still need more help? Contact A People's Choice today for assistance completing and filing all required legal documents to close your business.

How to Access a Safe Deposit Box in California Following a Loved One’s Death

By Sandra McCarthy|August 12th, 2020|Estate Planning, Probate|

When a loved one dies with a safe deposit box, it's important to check what's inside! Often, people store wills, trusts, or other important estate planning documents in their safe deposit boxes. If your loved one's belongings are located at a financial institution, be sure to bring a key, proof of death, and a driver's license when requesting access.

Legal Document Preparation Fees – Are You Getting a Fair Deal?

By Sandra McCarthy|August 11th, 2020|California Courts|

What are considered fair and reasonable legal document preparation fees? Consumers typically find considerable discrepancies in cost amongst legal document assistants. Here at A People's Choice, we set fees by taking into consideration value and convenience, keeping our prices extremely competitive compared to rates offered by other companies.

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Will Documents

Description of Will Documents (Notary fees additional)	Price
Will (individual)	$200
Codicil to Will	$125
Will package (individual) includes Will, Healthcare Directive and Financial Power of Attorney	$250
Will package (couple) includes 2 Wills, 2 Healthcare Directives and 2 Financial Powers of Attorney	$399
Other Services	Call for Quote

Trust Documents

Description of Trust Documents (Notary fees additional)	Price
Revocable Trust or Restatement of Revocable Trust (Individual) Trust or Trust Restatement only (you must have an existing revocable trust)	$300
Revocable Trust or Restatement of Revocable Trust (Couple) Trust or Trust Restatement only (you must have an existing trust)	$400
Revocable Trust or Restatement of Revocable Trust Package (Individual) Includes Trust, Pour-over Will, Certificate of Trust, Healthcare Directive, Financial Power of Attorney and estate folder	$499
Revocable Trust or Restatement of Revocable Trust Package (Couple) Includes joint trust, 2 Pour-over Wills, Certificate of Trust, 2 Healthcare Directives, 2 Financial Powers of Attorney and estate folder	$650
Special Needs Trust Designed for beneficiaries with physical or mental disabilities.	$700
Irrevocable Medi-Cal and/or VA Planning Trust	$700
Trust Transfer Deed and Preliminary Change of Ownership (California property)	$200 ($50 discount w/trust pkg)
Trust Transfer Deed (Out-of-State property)	$275 ($50 discount w/trust pkg)
Trust Transfer Deed (Timeshare)	$275 ($50 discount w/trust pkg)

Individual Estate Documents

Description of Individual Documents (Notary fees additional)	Price
Will	$200
Healthcare Directive	$125
Financial Power of Attorney	$125
Codicil to Will	$125
Trust Amendment	$200 and up
Trust Transfer Deed and Preliminary Change of Ownership (California property)	$200
Trust Transfer Deed (Out-of-State property)	$275
Trust Transfer Deed (Timeshare)	$275
Other Services	Call for Quote

Conservatorships Services We Offer	Price
Standard Conservatorship of Person AND/OR Estate (1 Petitioner) with or without Dementia Orders (Documents Only)	$1500
Limited Conservatorship for Developmentally Disabled (Documents Only)	$1200
Add-on Fees for Emergency Ex Parte Conservatorship (limited or standard)	+$300
Additional co-petitioner fee to any Conservatorship Petition	+$200
Add-on Fees for application for notice waivers and order	+$300
Add-on Fees for case management through Petition phase. Services include scheduling of any associated hearings, facilitating filing of documents with the court and other management services typically required to complete your Petition request	+$250
Standard preparation time is 10-14 business days. Rush preparation of all documentation is available for additional fee	$350+

Estate Administration Services	Price
Trust Administration (1 real property) each additional property +$200	$499
Probate Transfer by Affidavit (non-court, for estates with personal property only. This process cannot be used for estates with real property. Property must be valued under $166,250/$184,500)	$225
Simplified Probate Proceeding to Transfer Real Property Not Exceeding $55,425/61,000 (up to 2 Petitioners; 1 real property)	$649*
Simplified Probate Proceeding to Transfer Real Property Not Exceeding $166,425 (up to 2 Petitioners; 1 real property)	$799*
Spousal Property Petition (1 real property)	$749*
Heggstad Petition (1 Petitioner, 1 real property)	$1500**
No frills Probate Petition Documents Only for California Probate with Order of Probate and Letters of Administration or Letters Testamentary (document prep only with instructions. No court filing or additional support services.)	$750**
Phase 1 California Probate Petition (Full Service with court filing assistance, arranging publication, notices and case management) up to Order of Probate and Letters of Administration or Letters Testamentary	$1500**
Most Popular Full service, complete California Probate, facilitation of court filings, arranging publication, administrative notices, and ongoing case management services	$3900**
Probate Phase 2 or Phase 3 Full Service	$1500.00+/phase
Report of Sale and Petition for Order Confirming Sale Real Property (for matters with limited authority)	$1500.00 +costs
Notice of Proposed Action (up to 5 notices)	$250
Supplements to Petitions	$250 min. and up
Other Probate Services	Call for quote

*In these alternative small estate probate proceedings, if estate has more than 1 real property or 2 Co-Petitioners, additional fees will based on the following: +$75/each Petitioner over 2; +$150/each additional real property over 1. **In full probate proceedings, the following additional fees will apply, if applicable: +$250/each additional real property over 1; +$250/co-Petitioner; +$100/each beneficiary over 5. Fee covers all standard documents for routine proceeding but does not cover specialty services that may be required in some proceedings. Fees are based on all heirs waiving bond, waiver of accounting by all beneficiaries, and all creditors paid in full prior to filing Petition for Final distribution. Phase 3 Petition for Final Distribution may have add-on fees based on extraordinary actions or requests by the administrator prior to distribution. Annual surcharge fee of $500 will be assessed for each year or partial year the case remains open after 12 months.

Business Services We Offer	Price
General Corporation Includes standard minutes, bylaws, resolutions, stock certificates and corporate folder. Secretary of State fee: $100.00	$275
S-Corporation (Includes S-Corp election) Includes standard minutes, bylaws, resolutions, stock certificates and corporate folder. Secretary of State fee: $100.00	$310
LLC Includes Operating Agreement and corporate folder. Secretary of State fee: $70.00	$399
Professional Corp Includes Bylaws. Secretary of State fee: $100.00	$499
Non Profit Corporation Includes standard minutes, bylaws and corporate folder. Secretary of State Fee: $30.00	$499
501(C)(3) Non Profit Federal Tax Application	$599
Dissolve Corporation	$200
Walk Through Service with Secretary of State (turn around time 7-10 days)	$165
Registered Agent for Service (Annual) Click here to sign up.	$175
IRS S-Corp Election only	$50
Obtain Tax ID Number	$50
Statement of Information	$50
Fictitious Business Name Includes facilitating processing and publication (filing fee and publication fees vary from county to county).	$175
Basic Partnership Agreement	$300
Business Sales Agreement	$300
Copyright Standard Application	$150
Other Business Services	Call for Quote

Agreements	Price
Marital Settlement Agreement only	$275+
Stipulation and Order	$350+
Stipulation/Order with Paternity petition	$624
Pre or postnuptial Agreement (basic)	$299
Nuptial Agreement with complex, custom clauses	$999

Paternity Matters	Price
Paternity Petition only	$300
Stipulation and Order only	$350
Paternity Petition with Stipulated Judgment	$575
Paternity Petition with Request for Order/Motion for custody, visitation, support	$875

Marriage and Domestic Partnerships Proceedings	Price
Short term Marriage/Domestic Partnership (no personal property, children or real property)	$499
Marriage/Domestic Partnership with personal property (NO children, includes written Agreement)	$624
Marriage/Domestic Partnership with children (Includes written Agreement)	$624
Marriage/Domestic Partnership with 1 real property (Includes written Agreement	$775
Summary Dissolution (Please check qualifications for Summary Dissolution)	$499
Termination of Domestic Partnership through Secretary of State (Please check qualifications for Secretary of State procedure)	$499
Petition Only OR Response to Dissolution	$200-$300
Application to Serve by Publication	$275

NEW "DOCUMENTS ONLY" SERVICE for Marriage and Domestic Partnerships Proceedings. Budget option for documents only. Services do not include any case management or filing services.	Price
Preparation of standard dissolution or legal separation documents for short-term marriage or domestic partnership (no personal property, children or real property, with filing instructions). Includes all standard documents from Summons to Judgment.	$250
Preparation of standard dissolution or legal separation documents for marriage or domestic partnership (with filing instructions.) Includes all standard documents from Summons and Petition through Judgment based on parties signing a drafted Marital Settlement Agreement (does not address any separate or community real property.)	$400
Preparation of standard dissolution or legal separation documents for marriage or domestic partnership (with filing instructions.) Includes all standard documents from Summons and Petition through Judgment based on parties signing a drafted Marital Settlement Agreement which addresses separate or community real property division.)	$550

Motion/Contested Matters (does not include preparation of Orders After Hrg)	Price
Custody or Visitation Motion (RFO)	$475
Custody, Visitation and/or Support Motion (RFO)	$575
Emergency Custody or Visitation Motion (RFO) Includes request for temporary orders.	$900 min. (incudes RUSH processing)
Emergency Custody, Visitation, Support Motion Includes request for temporary orders.	$975 min. (includes RUSH processing)
Custody, Visitation and Support Motion with Paternity Petition	$875
Ex Parte to Terminate Child Support at 18	$250
Motion for Change of Venue	$575
Motion for Gillmore Election	$775
Other specialty motions	$575+ requires quote
Motion for Bifurcation and Final Judgment documentation	$825
Restraining Order- civil or domestic (no children)	$400 min.
Restraining Order (with children)	$575 min.

Guardianship Services	Price
Guardianship Affidavit or Power of Attorney (non-court)	$175
Guardianship of Person AND/OR Estate (1 Petitioner)	$1200
Add-on Fees for Co-Petitioners (per additional petitioner)	+$200
Add-on Fees for additional Minor(s) per minor	+$400
Add-on fees for Temporary ExParte Guardianship Request	+$300
Terminate Guardianship of Person and/or Estate	$399
Other Guardianship Services	Call for Quote

Expungement Services	Price
California Expungements	$399; +$200 ea. addtl. (same case #)
Felony to Misdemeanor reduction	$399
Criminal Prop 47 Resentencing or Reduction	$399; +$200 ea. addtl. (same case #)
Motion to Terminate Probation Early	$575
Petition to Seal Record	$499
Petition for Certificate of Rehabilitation	$399; +$50 each additional felony

Name Change Services	Price
Adult Name Change (individual)	$399
Combo Adult Name Change with 1 child – If more than one child, add $100.00 for each additional	$450
Name change for Minor Child – If more than one child, add $100.00 for each additional	$399
Name change after Divorce (Certified copy of Order extra)	$100

Title Transfers	Price
Grant Deed, Quitclaim Deed, Affidavit Death of Joint Tenant, Trust Transfer Deed, Transfer on Death Deed or other California deed Includes preparation of Preliminary Change of Ownership Report	$200
Warranty or Out-of-State Deeds (Non-California Deeds)	$275
Timeshare Deeds	$275

Other Matters	Price
Claim for Exclusion of Reassessment (parent/child or grandparent/grandchild)	$125 (discounted to $100 if prepared with deed)
Promissory Note secured by Deed of Trust	$325
Request for Special Notice re Deed of Trust	$125
Order copy of last transfer document/deed	$30

Civil Complaints and Answers	Price
Small Claims Package Includes preparation of claim, submission of documents to court, scheduling of hearing and arranging service of process	$250 plus $25 each defendant over 1
Civil Complaint Limited with 1 cause of action Each additional cause of action	$250 +$75
Response to unverified Civil Complaint with affirmative defenses	$250
Response to verified Civil Complaint with affirmative defenses	$350 (1 cause of action)

Other Civil and Misc. Matters	Price
Propounding Discovery Interrogatories, Request for Admissions, Production of Documents	$500 up
Responding to Discovery Interrogatories, Request for Admissions, Production of Documents	$500 up
Motion to Set Aside Default Judgment	$575
Civil Restraining Order	$499; $25 each addtl. protected person
Renew Judgment	$350
California Sister State Judgment	$300
Other Collection Proceedings	Call for quote
Expungement	$399
Other Services	Call for quote

Copyright Services	Price
Federal Copyright Application	$150
Government Filing Fee	$45-$65

QDROs and Retirement Division	Price
QDRO	$499
Joinder only	$350
QDRO with Joinder	$825

QDROs and Retirement Division	Price
QDRO	$499
Joinder only	$350
QDRO with Joinder	$825

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