Does a Will avoid probate in California?
No, a Will does not avoid probate. If the total value of a person’s assets passing at death to person(s) other than a surviving spouse is in excess of $100,000, then a probate is required unless certain exceptions apply. Property held in the name of a living Trust, beneficiary designated assets such as life insurance, annuities, IRAs and other retirement assets, a mobile home, and joint tenancy property are exceptions that do not require probate.
