Letters Testamentary vs Letters of Administration in California Probate (5 differences for clarity)

Understanding the difference between Letters Testamentary vs Letters of Administration is crucial for anyone navigating California probate. These court-issued documents determine who has legal authority to manage an estate—executors under a valid will receive Letters Testamentary, while administrators are appointed through Letters of Administration when no will exists or the named executor cannot serve.
California’s Independent Administration of Estates Act (IAEA): A Clear Path Through Probate in 2026

The Independent Administration of Estates Act (IAEA) gives California executors and administrators a streamlined way to handle probate with fewer court approvals and reduced delays. By granting broader authority to personal representatives, the IAEA allows estates to be managed more efficiently—helping families save time, cut costs, and avoid unnecessary stress.
Selling a House in San Diego Probate: Step-by-Step California Guide (2025)

Selling a house in probate can be challenging. This expert guide outlines crucial steps when selling a house in San Diego probate, clarifying legal processes and options for personal representatives.
Navigating California Probate: Your Guide to the 3 Different Types of California Probate

Understanding the different types of probate in California is essential for families who are navigating the estate process after losing a loved one. Depending on the value of the estate and the kinds of assets involved, probate can take several forms—from formal probate for larger estates, to simplified summary probate for mid-sized estates, to the use of a small estate affidavit for quicker transfers. Each option has unique requirements, timelines, and benefits, and knowing which path applies can save both time and expense during an already difficult period.
Opelon LLP’s Lawyer Matt Odgers Named to 2026 Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America

San Diego, August 21, 2025 — Opelon LLP is pleased to announce that partner Matt Odgers lawyer has been included in the 2026 edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America.
Estate Planning for Bitcoin in 2025 | A Simple Guide to Fund a Trust with Bitcoin

If you are a holder of Bitcoin, this article will help you to understand how to fund a trust with Bitcoin as well as the benefits of estate planning for Bitcoin.
The Ultimate Guide to Surviving California Probate (Our 2024 Update)

Probate is a Court process required to manage a Decedent’s estate and distribute his or her assets. Probate is statutorily driven, meaning that much of the process is governed by the statutes/laws passed by the California legislature and set forth in the California Probate Code.
Discover the Latest Federal Estate Tax Exemption Increase for 2024 – Are you ready?

In 2024 the federal estate tax exemption is $13,610,000 for an individual or $27,220,000 million for a married couple.
So how does this affect you? Put simply, this will only affect you if the total value of your estate exceeds the tax exemption amount.