Probate Notes: Your Guide to Navigating California Probate Law

R. Sam Price
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Welcome to Probate Notes, your go-to podcast for navigating the complexities of California probate law. Hosted by R. Sam Price, a seasoned probate attorney, Certified Specialist in Estate Planning, Trust, and Probate Law by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization, and author of The 6-Stage Probate Process, this podcast breaks down probate practice with expert insights, practical strategies, and real-world solutions for attorneys, paralegals, fiduciaries, and professionals in the probate industry. Each episode dives into key topics, from foundational probate concepts to advanced litigation strategies, helping you master the nuances of probate practice. Whether it's fixing court examiner deficiencies, tackling probate litigation, or staying ahead of legislative updates, you'll get actionable guidance to streamline your cases and elevate your expertise. Expect guest interviews with top probate attorneys, fiduciaries, and legal experts, as well as a dedicated segment answering listener questions. Whether you're a seasoned probate attorney or just starting in the field, Probate Notes will help you navigate probate with confidence, clarity, and efficiency. 🎧 Subscribe now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Submit your questions and be part of the conversation!

  1. 035: Music Royalties & Probate Explained with Iver Scott

    4D AGO

    035: Music Royalties & Probate Explained with Iver Scott

    What happens when a hit song, a music catalog, or even a celebrity's name and likeness becomes part of a probate estate? In this episode, Sam welcomes Iver Scott of Scott Valuation, LLC, a specialist in intellectual property valuation, to break down how IP assets are valued in an estate context — from discounted cash flow analysis to the rare cases where comparable sales can apply. Iver shares what goes into valuing music catalogs, how reversion and recapture rights affect value, and the critical distinction between valuing an asset immediately before versus after an artist's death — a nuance that played out in a landmark tax court case involving the Michael Jackson estate. Iver's insights are essential listening for any probate professional who may encounter IP assets in an estate. In this episode, you will hear: How intellectual property valuation sits at the intersection of art and science Discounted cash flow analysis explained — and why future cash flows are worth less than cash in hand today When comparable sales methodology works for music catalogs (and when it doesn't) The role of genre, commercial trajectory, and an artist's "S curve" in valuing a song Reversion and recapture rights and how they impact the value of music copyrights Inside the Michael Jackson estate valuation — name, image, and likeness under the microscope Why the timing of a valuation (immediately before vs. after an artist's death) can mean a difference of tens of millions of dollars in estate tax Resources from this Episode The 6-Stage Probate Process: How to Navigate California Probate: https://a.co/d/82310Rw  iver.scott@scottvaluation.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/iver-scott-1731a937/ https://www.scottvaluation.com/ Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

    35 min
  2. 034: Hidden Assets & Missing Heirs with M. Jason Ross

    MAR 3

    034: Hidden Assets & Missing Heirs with M. Jason Ross

    Ever wonder how professional fiduciaries play detective to track down heirs and uncover hidden assets? In this episode, Sam sits down with M. Jason Ross, a licensed professional fiduciary with Kaalund Professional Fiduciary and Trustee Services, to break down the investigative side of probate administration. From using tools like Spokeo to cross-search social media platforms, to pulling six months of pre-death bank statements, Jason shares the real-world strategies that surface assets most people never think to look for. Jason also covers unclaimed property searches, including one case where a simple search turned up nearly $70,000, and how insurance policy locators can identify policies even when beneficiaries don't know which company holds them. If probate asset searches have ever left you feeling lost, this episode is your roadmap. In this episode, you will hear: How professional fiduciaries use tools like Spokeo to locate missing heirs across social media platforms Why online directories and public records searches work best with more than just a name Pulling six months of pre-death bank statements to uncover unknown accounts and financial activity Using payment apps like Venmo as a trail to identify family members and financial relationships How unclaimed property searches can yield surprising results — sometimes tens of thousands of dollars The insurance policy locator as a tool for finding life insurance and annuities beneficiaries didn't know existed Resources from this Episode https://www.kaalundfiduciary.com/ The 6-Stage Probate Process: How to Navigate California Probate: https://a.co/d/82310Rw  Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

    41 min
  3. 033: California Will Contests with Kevin Snyder

    FEB 24

    033: California Will Contests with Kevin Snyder

    Will contests can turn an already emotional probate matter into full-blown litigation. In this episode, Sam sits down with Kevin Snyder of Snyder Law PC to unpack what really happens when someone challenges a will in California. They talk about why seemingly "equal" distributions still spark disputes, how dueling wills arise, and what attorneys need to know about procedural traps, notice requirements, and strict 120-day deadlines. Kevin walks through the burden of proof, common mistakes lawyers make, and why will contests demand technical precision from day one. If you've ever wondered who has to prove what, when a will can be attacked, or how to protect yourself from malpractice exposure in these cases, this conversation is for you. Keep your filings clean and your strategy sharper than the objections. In this episode, you will hear: Why "equal" distributions still lead to will contests Common grounds for challenging a will in California Dueling wills and what happens when multiple versions surface Holographic wills and execution requirements Strict procedural rules and 120-day contest deadlines Burden of proof in probate litigation Resources from this Episode Website: https://www.snyderlawpc.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/attorneykevinsnyder/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SnyderLawPC/ The 6-Stage Probate Process: How to Navigate California Probate: https://a.co/d/82310Rw  Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

    39 min
  4. 032: High Conflict in Probate with Megan Hunter

    FEB 17

    032: High Conflict in Probate with Megan Hunter

    High conflict cases can drain your time, your energy, and your confidence. In this episode, Sam sits down with Megan Hunter of the High Conflict Institute to break down what's really happening when personalities derail probate matters. They talk about high conflict personality types, why logic alone doesn't work, and how understanding someone's "operating system" can completely change your strategy. Megan shares practical tools you can use immediately, including E.A.R. statements (Empathy, Attention, Respect), the BIFF response method for hostile emails, and how to set firm limits without escalating the situation. If you've ever received a nasty-gram or felt like you're working harder than your own client, this episode is for you. High conflict behavior is predictable and manageable when you have the right framework. In this episode, you will hear: What drives high conflict personalities in legal cases The five high conflict personality types and their core fears Why logic alone fails with high conflict clients Using E.A.R. statements to deescalate emotional reactions The BIFF method for responding to hostile emails Setting firm limits without escalating conflict Avoiding self-doubt and overworking difficult cases Resources from this Episode https://www.highconflictinstitute.com/podcasts/ https://www.conflictinfluencer.com/ The 6-Stage Probate Process: How to Navigate California Probate: https://a.co/d/82310Rw  Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

    45 min
  5. 031: Adjudicated Newspapers in CA Probate with Margie Miller

    FEB 10

    031: Adjudicated Newspapers in CA Probate with Margie Miller

    In this episode of Probate Notes, Sam is joined by Margie Miller, publisher of City News Group, to pull back the curtain on adjudicated newspapers and why they matter so much in probate cases. They dig into what "general circulation" actually means, how newspapers become court-approved for legal notices, and the role proper publication plays in due process, from petitions for probate to notices of sale and service by publication. Margie brings nearly two decades of experience as a newspaper publisher and explains how legal notices work in the real world, common mistakes attorneys and self-represented parties make, and how modern tools like online submission and proofing have streamlined what used to be a very manual process. If you handle probate filings in California, this is a practical, behind-the-scenes conversation you'll want to hear. In this episode, you will hear: What makes a newspaper legally adjudicated for probate notices General circulation explained and why it matters for due process Probate publication deadlines and how weekly schedules affect hearings Common mistakes that force costly republication How online submission and proofing reduce publication errors Best practices for attorneys handling probate and court-ordered notices Resources from this Episode https://www.citynewsgroup.com/ The 6-Stage Probate Process: How to Navigate California Probate: https://a.co/d/82310Rw  Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

    37 min
  6. 030: Exempt Sellers and Real Estate Disclosures in California Probate with Teresa Gorman

    FEB 3

    030: Exempt Sellers and Real Estate Disclosures in California Probate with Teresa Gorman

    Understanding real estate disclosures in probate sales can be deceptively complex, especially when exempt sellers are involved. In this episode of Probate Notes, host Sam Price sits down with Teresa Gorman to break down what fiduciaries, trustees, and personal representatives need to know when selling California probate property. Together, they unpack who qualifies as an exempt seller, what properties are covered, and which disclosures still matter despite statutory exemptions. Teresa brings a rare dual perspective as a former trust and estate attorney and current broker with Fiduciary Real Estate Services, sharing practical guidance on avoiding disclosure mistakes that can lead to post-sale liability. From deaths on property to common law disclosure duties, this conversation focuses on real-world risk, not theory. This episode is a must-listen for probate professionals navigating real estate sales with confidence and care. In this episode, you will hear: Who qualifies as an exempt seller under California probate law Which probate and trust properties are exempt from standard real estate disclosures What exempt sellers must still disclose despite statutory exemptions Common mistakes fiduciaries make when completing exempt seller disclosures How deaths on a property should be handled and disclosed Disclosure risks created by repairs, renovations, and "light" fix-ups Why failing to disclose material facts can lead to post-sale liability Resources from this Episode https://www.fiduciaryrealestateservices.com/teresa-gorman The 6-Stage Probate Process: How to Navigate California Probate: https://a.co/d/82310Rw  Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

    46 min
  7. 029: Working With Public Administrators in Probate Cases with Shane Duncombe

    JAN 27

    029: Working With Public Administrators in Probate Cases with Shane Duncombe

    In this episode of Probate Notes, Sam Price explores how public administrators step in when probate cases become complicated or family members are unavailable. Attorney Shane Duncombe joins the conversation to share practical insights into when and why a public administrator gets appointed, how they investigate estates, and what attorneys should expect when working alongside them. Shane explains the public administrator's role in contested estates, orders to show cause, missing heirs, fiduciary duties, statutory fees, bonding requirements, and how neutral third-party administration can help resolve family conflict. He also breaks down timelines, asset liquidation decisions, trust appointments, and key challenges attorneys should understand when representing government-appointed fiduciaries. Shane Duncombe is the principal of Duncombe Law, representing county public administrators in Riverside and San Bernardino while handling complex probate and civil matters. This episode is a grounded, practical look at probate from the perspective of a professional who handles the toughest cases. In this episode, you will hear: When and why a public administrator gets appointed in probate cases Handling estates with no known heirs or family involvement What attorneys should do when an order to show cause is issued How public administrators investigate assets and locate missing information Neutral estate administration in contested or high-conflict family cases Statutory fees, bonding requirements, and compensation rules for public administrators Resources from this Episode https://raxterlaw.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaneduncombe  The 6-Stage Probate Process: How to Navigate California Probate: https://a.co/d/82310Rw  Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

    35 min
  8. 028: Probate Asset Inventory Explained with Gabriela Fisk

    JAN 20

    028: Probate Asset Inventory Explained with Gabriela Fisk

    In this episode of Probate Notes, Sam Price sits down with professional fiduciary Gabriela Fisk of IE Fids to unpack what really goes into documenting and managing personal property in probate and conservatorship cases. Drawing on her background in insurance and fiduciary work, Gabriela explains why thorough asset documentation is essential not just for compliance, but for risk management, transparency, and reducing conflict among beneficiaries. Gabriela walks through her methodical, boots-on-the-ground process for inventorying homes, vehicles, safe deposit boxes, and specialty collections, from artwork and jewelry to unexpected heirlooms. She shares practical insights on working with probate referees, appraisers, auction houses, and other professionals, and explains how good documentation can prevent disputes and protect the estate. A practical, behind-the-scenes conversation on how careful process creates clarity, trust, and value in probate administration. In this episode, you will hear: What a professional fiduciary does and how Gabriela Fisk entered the field The licensing and experience required to become a professional fiduciary in California Methodical processes for documenting homes, vehicles, and personal property Using photos, notes, and inventories to support probate referees and appraisals Handling specialty items like artwork, jewelry, collections, and safe deposit boxes Risk management and transparency to reduce beneficiary disputes Resources from this Episode https://www.iefids.com/ The 6-Stage Probate Process: How to Navigate California Probate: https://a.co/d/82310Rw  Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

    42 min
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Welcome to Probate Notes, your go-to podcast for navigating the complexities of California probate law. Hosted by R. Sam Price, a seasoned probate attorney, Certified Specialist in Estate Planning, Trust, and Probate Law by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization, and author of The 6-Stage Probate Process, this podcast breaks down probate practice with expert insights, practical strategies, and real-world solutions for attorneys, paralegals, fiduciaries, and professionals in the probate industry. Each episode dives into key topics, from foundational probate concepts to advanced litigation strategies, helping you master the nuances of probate practice. Whether it's fixing court examiner deficiencies, tackling probate litigation, or staying ahead of legislative updates, you'll get actionable guidance to streamline your cases and elevate your expertise. Expect guest interviews with top probate attorneys, fiduciaries, and legal experts, as well as a dedicated segment answering listener questions. Whether you're a seasoned probate attorney or just starting in the field, Probate Notes will help you navigate probate with confidence, clarity, and efficiency. 🎧 Subscribe now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Submit your questions and be part of the conversation!

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