Navigating the Probate Process with Untraceable Heirs
In the nuanced world of probate, encountering untraceable heirs poses a notable challenge. This calls for strategic legal actions and rigorous search efforts to ensure a fair and lawful estate settlement. The law, specifically California’s Probate Code sections 12400-12408, outlines a clear path for situations where an heir has not been located for five consecutive years.
By petitioning the probate court, an executor can request to officially presume such an heir as deceased, a critical measure allowing the estate’s administration to proceed smoothly.