I'm sorry to hear about the loss of your husband. To provide accurate and up-to-date information regarding your entitlements, it's important to consult with a legal professional who specializes in estate planning, probate, or family law in California. Laws can vary depending on your specific situation and the circumstances surrounding your marriage.
In California, certain legal principles may come into play when a person passes away, particularly if they were married. Some key considerations include:
Intestacy laws: If your husband did not have a will, California's intestacy laws will determine how his estate will be distributed among surviving family members, including a surviving spouse. Generally, a surviving spouse is entitled to a share of the deceased spouse's estate.
Community property laws: California is a community property state, which means that property acquired during the marriage is generally considered community property and belongs equally to both spouses. If you were married for 30 years, there might be community property assets that you could have a claim to.
Marital property agreements: If you and your husband had a prenuptial agreement or another form of marital property agreement, it could affect your entitlement to his assets.
Living separately at the time of death: Living separately from your husband at the time of his passing might impact certain legal rights and claims. It would be essential to understand the specific implications in your situation.
To understand your rights and entitlements fully, I strongly recommend reaching out to an attorney who can provide personalized legal advice based on the details of your case. They can guide you through the legal process, explain your options, and help you navigate any potential probate or estate administration matters in California.