Opelon LLP- a Trust, Estate & Probate Law Firm

06/23/2026

Did a loved one set up a living trust but never move their house or accounts into it?

It happens more often than people think. In California, a Heggstad petition can sometimes confirm an asset belongs in the trust.

The key is written proof, such as trust documents or a signed assignment, showing that was the intent.

That may let your family avoid full probate for that asset.

For uncontested matters in San Diego County, it generally moves faster than full probate.

See how it works: https://opelon.com/heggstad-petition-in-san-diego-probate-code-850/

06/19/2026

If you are handling an estate property in San Diego County, the probate sale can work two very different ways.

When the personal representative has full IAEA authority, the sale moves much like a normal home sale. When the court must confirm the sale, the rules tighten, including a 90% minimum price floor and the chance of a courtroom overbid.

Our new guide breaks down both tracks step by step. See how it works:

The California probate sale process for realtors requires specialized knowledge most agents lack. Learn IAEA authority rules, overbid procedures, and the 7 listing mistakes to avoid.

06/18/2026

Most California families are surprised to learn that probate fees are set by state law, not negotiated.

On a $1,000,000 estate, the combined statutory attorney and personal representative fees come to roughly $46,000, before any court costs. And the fee is calculated on the full property value, so a mortgage does not reduce it.

Our free calculator estimates the statutory fees on any California estate value in seconds. See how it works: https://opelon.com/california-probate-fee-calculator/

04/23/2026

Today the Opelon LLP team was out in Oceanside at the El Corazon Senior Center connecting with San Diego seniors and their families at the Senior Expo USA ( . Satori and Gabi represented the firm beautifully, sharing how estate planning, probate, and trust administration can protect the people you love most.
If you stopped by our booth today – or if you’ve been putting off getting your plan in place – we’d love to connect. Free consultations are always available at Opelon.com or by calling (760) 278-1116.
Protecting families across San Diego County, one plan at a time.
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