Probate Administrator
A probate administrator may be appointed after the death of an individual and pursuant to state law. A probate proceeding may be opened due to a variety of circumstances and a legal representative is appointed for the decedent and his/her estate via the issuance of Letters Tastamentary authorizing the administrator to collect the decedent’s assets, pay creditors and distribute the remaining assets to heirs or other beneficiaries. Stephen Donell has been appointed as a 3rd party probate administrator.
Who We Work With
We work exclusively with trust and estates attorneys navigating complex or contested probate matters where impartial administration and expert asset management are essential to protecting the estate and beneficiaries.
Tailored to the Case
We align our training, experience, licensing, and credentials with the unique demands of each estate to determine the most appropriate fiduciary remedy including successor trustee or interim trustee appointments.
Neutral and Impartial
As court-appointed professionals, we operate with objectivity and neutrality, ensuring the estate is managed without bias toward any party or beneficiary.
Dispute Minimization
By providing an independent voice and experienced oversight, we help de-escalate conflict among interested parties and focus attention on fair, court-guided resolution.
California Probate Expertise
With deep experience across California jurisdictions, we understand the procedural nuances of state probate courts and ensure filings and responsibilities are handled correctly.
Types of Cases
Our team specializes in managing estates with complex assets, including:
Clients Who Trusted Us
Locations Served
We provide probate administration services in California.
Los Angeles, Riverside, San Francisco, San Bernardino, Sacramento, Ventura, San Diego, Orange County, and the California District Court
California
How we work together
Every case is different. We match our training, experience, licensing, and credentials with the needs of each estate to determine the most appropriate remedy including successor trustee or interim trustee roles where appropriate.
We take a pragmatic, impartial, and court-compliant approach to probate administration that protects estate value, minimizes conflict, and facilitates timely resolution.
Reach out
Reach out to us via our contact page.
Set an Appointment
An initial call will allow for an initial assessment of the proposed case.
Sample Pleadings & Orders
FedReceiver has a vast library of exemplars including motions seeking appointment of provisional director, orders appointing provisional director and memorandum of points & authorities.
References
We offer excellent references with local and national law firms, accounting firms and clients.
Court Experience
Given our decades of experience and hundreds of cases, we have appeared in state/federal court and have excellent relationships with numerous courts/judges.
Probate Administrator FAQs
Who is a Probate Administrator?
A Probate Administrator is assigned by the court to oversee the financial and legal affairs of a deceased individual who did not leave a valid will. They manage the estate’s assets, debts, and final distributions.
When does the court appoint a Probate Administrator?
A Probate Administrator is appointed by the court in situations where someone dies without a valid will (intestate) or if the executor nominated in the will is either unable or unwilling to manage the estate. Typically, the court chooses a suitable individual such as a close relative or a creditor.
What are the main duties of a Probate Administrator?
Their responsibilities include preparing an inventory of all estate assets, settling any outstanding debts or liabilities, distributing the remaining assets according to state inheritance laws, and regularly updating the court on their actions and progress.
How long does probate typically last?
The probate process can vary in duration, often taking from several months up to a few years, depending on the size and complexity of the estate and the speed of court proceedings.
Is a Probate Administrator paid for their work?
Yes, Probate Administrators receive compensation determined by applicable state regulations or court guidelines. This compensation is paid from the estate before distributing remaining funds to the beneficiaries.
Review the chapter authored by Mr. Donell
Reviving the Financially Distressed Business
Reviving The Financially Distressed Business is the essential guide for business owners and corporate leaders whose companies are under—or anticipating—financial difficulties. See Chapter 11, Receiverships, written by Court Receiver Stephen Donell, CCIM, CPM
Steve Donell’s contribution to the book “Reviving a Financially Distressed Business” reflects not only his expertise as a receiver, but his sound judgment on how receivership can be used to effectively advance a financially troubled business.”
– Brian Davidoff, Esq. Author and Editor
About our provisional managers & directors
Complex corporate, partnership and LLC disputes may require appointment of provisional members.
Our professionals have been appointed as provisional directors and managers with all the rights, duties and powers of directors, officers and members pursuant to applicable code sections including under Cal. Code. Civ. P. § 564(b)(9).
Stephen J. Donell Los Angeles
President of FedReceiver, Inc., Jalmar Properties, Inc. and Donell Expert Services, Inc.
Todd D. Donell Los Angeles
Executive Vice President of FedReceiver, Inc. and Jalmar Properties, Inc.
James H. Donell Founder and CEO of FedReceiver, Inc. and Jalmar Properties, Inc.
[button link="https://fedreceiver.com/about/"]About Us[/button]
Sarah R. Bates Los Angeles
Vice President of FedReceiver, Inc. and Jalmar Properties, Inc.
