Claiming Inherited Vehicles Guide

Summary

If a friend left you vehicles without a will, a letter can serve as evidence in California probate. File a claim with the probate court using Form DE-111, DE-121, and DE-120. If someone else filed, submit a Creditors Claim (Form DE-172) with supporting documents. Consult a probate attorney for guidance.

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no there was no will but he wrote me a letter saying he was giving them to me and to pick them up as soon a
To clarify, did the letter specifically mention the vehicles and your name? This could be essential for the probate process.
yes I even have some of the paperwork for the cars just some documents were lost
In California, the letter can serve as evidence of your friend's intention to transfer the vehicles to you. Here are some general steps to consider for the probate process:
- File a claim with the probate court, providing the letter as evidence.
- Gather any available paperwork related to the vehicles.
- Consult with a probate attorney for specific guidance.
Do you need more details on how to file a claim with the probate court?
yes what forms do I file
To file a claim with the probate court in California, you will generally need to complete the following forms:
- Form DE-*: Petition for Probate
- Form DE-*: Notice of Petition to Administer Estate
- Form DE-*: Notice of Hearing—Decedent's Estate or Trust
You should also provide any available documentation, including the letter from your friend.
Do you need assistance with completing these forms?
what if someone else already filed those forms
If someone else has already filed those forms, you can still submit a claim to the probate court. You should:
- File a "Creditor's Claim" (Form DE-*).
- Provide the letter and any available vehicle paperwork as evidence.
Would you like detailed steps on how to file a Creditor's Claim?
yes
To file a "Creditor's Claim" (Form DE-*) in California, follow these steps:
- Complete and sign Form DE-*.
- Attach the letter from your friend and any available vehicle paperwork as evidence.
- File the form with the probate court handling your friend's estate.
- Serve a copy to the estate's executor or administrator.
Do you need more specifics on completing Form DE-*?
yes
To complete Form DE-* (Creditor's Claim) in California, follow these steps:
*. Fill in your contact information.
*. Describe the nature of your claim (the vehicles).
*. Attach supporting documents (letter, vehicle paperwork).
*. Sign and date the form.
*. File with the probate court handling your friend's estate.
*. Serve a copy to the estate's executor or administrator.
Would you like guidance on how to serve the form to the executor or administrator?