Table of Heirship - California

Table of Heirship is a legal document that was released by the California State Controller’s Office - a government authority operating within California.

FAQ

Q: What is a Table of Heirship?
A: A Table of Heirship is a document that determines the legal heirs of a deceased person.

Q: Why is a Table of Heirship needed?
A: A Table of Heirship is needed when someone passes away without a valid will, to establish who inherits their assets.

Q: How is a Table of Heirship created?
A: A Table of Heirship is created by gathering evidence, such as birth certificates and marriage licenses, to prove the relationship of potential heirs.

Q: Who can request a Table of Heirship?
A: Any interested party, such as a family member or potential heir, can request a Table of Heirship.

Q: Is a Table of Heirship legally binding?
A: No, a Table of Heirship is not legally binding. It is used as evidence to help determine inheritance rights, but a court will ultimately make the final decision.

Q: How long does it take to complete a Table of Heirship?
A: The time to complete a Table of Heirship can vary depending on the complexity of the case, but it typically takes several months to gather the necessary evidence and submit the document to the court.

Q: Can a Table of Heirship be challenged?
A: Yes, a Table of Heirship can be challenged in court. If someone believes they are a rightful heir but were not included in the document, they can contest it.

Q: What happens after a Table of Heirship is approved?
A: Once a Table of Heirship is approved by the court, it can be used to distribute the deceased person's assets according to the legal heirs identified in the document.