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Firm News

Actress Anne Heche Died Without a Will, Son Tries to Settle $4.1M in Claims  

The probate proceedings and the resulting complexities of administering actress Anne Heche’s estate stress, once again, the importance of having a professionally crafted estate plan. Such a plan, including a trust, ensures a smoother process and efficient transfer of assets to beneficiaries. The actress died in 2022 without a will. Her estate faces more than $4 million in claims.

Effectively prosecuting failures to comply with fiduciary responsibilities

Breach of fiduciary duty claims in estate and trust cases can be particularly challenging in California due to the state’s rigorous legal framework. Fiduciaries, such as executors and trustees, are entrusted with significant responsibilities and must act in the best interests of the beneficiaries. When a fiduciary fails to fulfill these duties, it can lead to complex legal disputes and, in some cases, personal liability for the fiduciary. Both plaintiffs and fiduciaries must understand their rights and responsibilities to navigate these complex disputes successfully and will serve their clients and themselves well by implementing preventive measures and by communicating openly. Doing so, fiduciaries can minimize the risk of breaches and ensure the fair administration of estates and trusts.

Super Lawyers Recognizes The Estate Lawyers

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE The Estate Lawyers Gostanian and Kincheloe Named 2025 California Super Lawyers Irvine, Calif. (Nov. 8, 2024) – The Estate Lawyers is pleased to announce that Managing Partner Amy L. Gostanian and Senior Litigation Associate Justin M. Kincheloe each has been named a 2025 California Super Lawyer®. Recognized for their successes and achievements in Estate & Trust Litigation, Gostanian…

Super Lawyers 2024

Join us in celebrating excellence in legal achievement! Several outstanding lawyers from our team have been recognized in the prestigious 2024 Super Lawyers in Probate and Litigation! Michelle Bartolic and Justin Kincheloe have once again earned spots in the 2024 Super Lawyers Rising Stars, and Amy Gostanian is a distinguished 2024 Super Lawyer for the fifth year in a row!…