Why do I want to avoid probate?

All assets passing through probate court become a matter of public record, and as such, vulnerable to creditors, predators, and opportunists. The court system in California is underfunded and overburdened and the probate process can take years to get through. Also, probate is very expensive, ultimately diminishing the overall value of your estate by a substantial margin. The probate process is generally the last thing family members want to endure after losing a loved one. Probate makes a hard time that much harder.