From drafting wills and funding trusts, to handling disputes in probate courts,
​we’re here to help, each step of the way.

At ADK Heritage Law, we focus on Estate Planning, California Probate, Trust Administration and Litigation. Conveniently located in the historic Davis Exchange building in beautiful downtown Santa Paula, California, we take great pride in providing clients throughout the state with kind compassionate service while effectively guiding them through the complex landscape of estate law. 

Our principal attorney, Amy Dilbeck Kiesewetter, Esq., is a fourth-generation Ventura County native, born and raised in Santa Paula. She has intimate understanding of the local area and culture, and is proud to bring the best in legal services to county residents. 

Our Practice Areas

Planning

A common misconception is that estate planning is only for the wealthy or aged. That's simply not the case. Creating an estate plan is a good idea for any adult individual or couple. It legally communicates your wishes while protecting you and your family from undue burden in the event of the unexpected and the inevitable. 

A good estate plan establishes a legal framework that clarifies and communicates your intent for a number of matters. It ensures your assets are distributed as you desire after your death, and directs what happens if you become incapacitated. It addresses who is to care for your minor children. All while ensuring you retain full control of your assets while you are alive and well.

​It's never too soon to get started, especially if you have children, own a home or a business, or have an investment portfolio of any size. 

Administration 

In both trust and probate administrations, assets must be collected and managed, asset appraisals must be made and debts and taxes must be paid. In addition, tax returns may be required and legal documents must be prepared in connection with the distribution of trust property to beneficiaries.  

If you are acting as a trustee, agent or personal representative for another person, a trust, or an estate, there are many specific responsibilities and requirements to which you are legally bound under California law. If you fail to meet the requirements, you may be held personally responsible for any loss suffered by the trust, estate or beneficiaries.

It can be overwhelming, especially in a time of loss. We are here to help you understand your role and responsibilities and provide you with experienced legal counsel that will help ease the process and support your administration obligations.  

Probate 

Probate is simply a court-supervised process to legally transfer a deceased person's assets and settle their debts. Proper estate planning, through the use of a revocable living trust, can eliminate the need for probate altogether.

If you are looking for help with California probate, or you aren't sure if probate is necessary in your unique situation, we would be happy to consult with you and provide guidance on the most efficient course of action.   

Litigation 

Ideally, we are brought in to help before litigation is necessary... however, should litigation be required... you can be assured we will be your advocate in the courtroom and help you successfully navigate what can be an emotionally stressful and painful process.

​We represent clients in a variety of trust actions, including trust contests, beneficiary claims, trust reformation, and accounting of trust finances, and we have experience litigating on behalf of trust beneficiaries, as well as defending trustees. 
Or contact us today to schedule a consultation.  

Did you know? 

​A majority of Americans today do not have a will, trust, power of attorney or medical directive... ​leaving their fate, family and fortune in the hands of the state.

You work hard throughout your life to provide for yourself and your family and to build your net worth.  Regardless of the size of your estate, proper estate planning ensures your wishes are clearly defined and legally communicated.  Protecting yourself and your family isn't as complicated or expensive as you may think, and doing it now saves your family from unnecessary financial and emotional burden later.   

We'd love to help you get started! 

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