The Real Cost of Probate in California: Fees, Delays, and Hidden Expenses
Discover probate costs in California. Learn about fees, delays, and hidden expenses, and how estate planning helps families avoid them.
Wills in California, Made Clear and Personal
Planning your will can feel overwhelming. At Hsiao Law, we make it simple and personal, explaining every step in plain language. Together, we’ll create a will that reflects your wishes, protects your loved ones, and follows California law.
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What Is a Living Will?
A living will, sometimes called an advance healthcare directive, lets you express your medical wishes in case you can’t speak for yourself. It guides doctors and loved ones through difficult moments, ensuring your voice is heard even when you can’t use it.
At Hsiao Law, we help you prepare this vital document alongside your estate plan, so your medical and financial decisions work together seamlessly.
Why Online Wills Can Leave Families Unprotected
Many people turn to online templates or DIY will kits, hoping for a quick fix. Unfortunately, these one-size-fits-all documents often fail to meet California’s strict legal requirements or account for family complexities, like stepchildren, property ownership, or guardianship.
What seems simple today can create confusion, disputes, and even probate battles later. Working with an experienced estate planning attorney ensures your will truly reflects your wishes, and stands up when it matters most.
Benefits of Having a Will in Place
A will gives you control, clarity, and comfort, helping your loved ones avoid confusion or conflict during difficult times. Here’s what a well-prepared will can do for you:
Ensure your spouse, children, or dependents are cared for according to your wishes.
Choose who will care for your children if something happens to you.
Provide clear instructions to prevent misunderstandings or conflict.
Reduce time in probate court and make the process smoother for your family.
Decide exactly how your property and keepsakes are shared.
What It’s Like to Create Your Will with Hsiao Law
Creating your will with Hsiao Law feels clear, personal, and empowering. We start by listening to your story, your family, your goals, and your concerns, then guide you through each decision with care and understanding. You’ll leave with more than just a document; you’ll have a plan that reflects your values and brings lasting peace of mind.
Based on 34 reviews
Joe Perone
3 years ago
Outstanding firm. Associates and leader are simultaneously very sharp as well as incredibly empathetic to the estate planning process. Strongly recommend!
Cailin Fonseca
3 years ago
I attended a planning and informational session with Amy. She is very engaging, insightful and makes you really think about your Estate Planning needs!
Lyndsay Nelson
3 years ago
Amy is a very professionell and personable attorney. Very much enjoyed the knowledge she shared at her event. Knowledge is power!
Karla Rodriguez
3 years ago
Amy was so knowledgeable and presented information in digestible chunks. I am leaving this session feeling empowered! Thank you so much Amy!
Alexis
3 years ago
Amy was so informative!! I came in knowing nothing about any planning for the future and am leaving feeling so empowered and ready for the future. She made it all very easy to understand and exciting to think about when it’s usually very overwhelming. Will definitely recommend her to everyone!
Niki Jones
3 years ago
We have been working with Hsiao Law for 3 years and I was so thrilled to be an attendees at today’s Wine & Wills event. As a single mom, estate planning seems so scary and overwhelming. Amy is absolutely amazing. She speaks in a way that is so easy to understand and helps you understand difficult subjects what you need to do by providing actionable first steps!
Bob Giramma
2 years ago
Amy is very knowledgeable and articulate. We thoroughly enjoyed her talk.
Donnaly Atajar
2 years ago
Amy was so helpful and supportive in sharing the preliminary steps and options to getting my affairs in order. This process can be overwhelming, but she provides info in a digestible way to ensure I understood. I want to make the process as easy as possible for my kids/family in the event something happens to me and Amy is making that easy with no surprise fees.
Teresa Rivers
2 years ago
I have already recommended Amy and her team to my friends, family and co-workers. Amy, Ashlee and Nikko are all very professional and knowledgeable. I love the very organized process of getting our trust developed. I also like that it's a one-stop shop for wills, trust and health care directive and PoA. The price is worth the peace of mind.
Rachel Paxton
1 year ago
Amy and her team were organized and professional while also being warm and kind. We loved working with them!
Protect What Matters Most
Your family deserves more than just documents, they deserve certainty, comfort, and care that lasts a lifetime. Whether you’re just starting your plan or updating one that no longer fits, Hsiao Law will guide you with compassion, clarity, and heart. Take the first step toward lasting peace of mind today.
Common Questions About Wills
How often should I update my will?
It’s best to review your will every three to five years, or sooner if you experience a major life change like marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child.
What happens if I die without a will in California?
Without a will, California’s intestate succession laws decide who inherits your assets. This process can be lengthy and may not reflect your wishes.
Can I write my own will?
While you can, DIY wills often miss legal details that make them invalid or confusing. An experienced estate planning attorney ensures your will is clear, compliant, and effective.
Do I still need a will if I have a trust?
Yes. A will acts as a safety net for any assets not titled in your trust and allows you to name guardians for minor children.
Can I change my will later?
Absolutely. Your will can be amended at any time to reflect new relationships, assets, or life circumstances.
