Frequently Asked Questions

Here are our most asked questions from clients

Estate Planning

  • A will is a legal document that states your wishes for your estate after you pass. A trust is a legal arrangement that allows a third party (trustee) to manage your assets. A living trust takes effect while you’re alive and helps avoid probate.

  • We can prepare a Durable Power of Attorney for finances and an Advance Health Care Directive for medical decisions. These documents authorize someone you trust to make decisions if you become incapacitated.

  • Yes. Updates are common and recommended after major life events (marriage, children, home purchase). We can assist with amendments or creating a new document to reflect your wishes.

  • In California, most estate documents must be notarized or witnessed to be valid. We’ll guide you through the proper requirements and provide notary services if needed.

  • While we cannot offer legal advice, there are some educational videos from CALDA about what a trust is. Please click the icon below to watch this on

Real Estate Deeds

  • A Grant Deed includes a legal guarantee that the title is clear and that the person transferring the property has the right to do so. In contrast, a Quitclaim Deed transfers any interest the person may have—without any warranties or guarantees about ownership.

    Because CV Legal Docs is not a law firm, we cannot advise you on which type of deed is appropriate for your situation. Please consult with a licensed attorney to determine the best option for your needs.

  • Yes. Recording the deed with the County Recorder’s Office makes the transfer official and protects your rights. We prepare and file the deed for you.

  • Yes. A Trust Transfer Deed is used to move property into a living trust. This helps avoid probate. We can prepare this deed as part of your estate plan.

Probate & Small Estate Proceedings

  • Probate is the legal process for settling a deceased person’s estate. It may be required if the person died without a trust or if the estate exceeds California’s small estate threshold (currently $208,850 - please call as this can change). We help you determine what’s needed.

  • A Spousal Property Petition allows a surviving spouse or registered domestic partner to claim property without full probate. It’s a streamlined option we can prepare for eligible cases.

  • This affidavit is used when the deceased’s real property is valued under $61,500 (as of 2025). It allows transfer without probate. We prepare and file this document when the estate qualifies.

  • Not necessarily. Having a will doesn’t avoid probate — it simply directs how assets should be distributed. A living trust is usually required to bypass probate.

  • Probate can take 9–18 months depending on the case. We help ensure documents are correctly prepared and submitted to avoid unnecessary delays.

Business Formation Services

  • While an LLC is often simpler and more flexible for small businesses, a Corporation may offer advantages for certain tax planning or attracting investors. However, because CV Legal Docs is not a law or tax firm, we cannot advise you on which type of entity to form.

    We can assist with preparing and filing the necessary documents once you’ve decided on the entity type that best suits your needs. Please consult with a qualified attorney or tax professional before making your decision.

  • We prepare and file your Articles of Organization (LLC) or Incorporation (Corp), along with your Operating Agreement or Bylaws. We also offer Fictitious Business Name filing and assistance with your Statement of Information.

  • Most businesses will need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS, and a business license may also be required depending on your location and business type.

    While CV Legal Docs cannot determine whether a license is required or where to file, we can assist with the preparation and filing of the necessary paperwork to obtain an EIN and file for a business license once you’ve confirmed the requirements with your local city or county agency.

    Please consult your local jurisdiction or a legal/tax professional to confirm what’s required for your specific business.

  • Standard processing is about 1–2 weeks. Expedited options may be available. We ensure your documents are filed correctly and efficiently to avoid delays.

  • Yes. We can assist with dissolution filings, amendments, name changes, and more. Reach out for a custom quote based on your needs.

Conservatorships

  • A conservatorship is a legal arrangement where a court appoints someone to manage another person’s personal or financial matters due to incapacity. It’s often needed when no power of attorney or estate plan is in place.

  • In California, there are General Conservatorships (typically for the elderly), Limited Conservatorships (for adults with developmental disabilities), and LPS Conservatorships (for mental health needs, by referral only). We assist with general and limited filings.

  • Once the petition is filed, it can take 4 to 8 months to receive a court hearing—depending on the court’s current schedule and caseload.

    While CV Legal Docs cannot control the timeline, we assist with accurate preparation and filing of all required documents, which helps reduce the risk of avoidable delays.

  • Yes. Conservatorships can be changed or ended if circumstances improve or if the conservatee passes away. We can assist with the necessary filings.

  • You are not required to hire an attorney. We are not a law firm and cannot offer legal advice, but we provide affordable document preparation and filing services for conservatorship matters.

General FAQs

  • A Legal Document Assistant is a licensed professional who prepares legal documents at your direction. We are not attorneys and do not provide legal advice — but we can save you time and money by preparing accurate, court-ready documents. For more information, please click this link this and watch this video about LDS from CALDA on YouTube!

  • Online services can be generic and impersonal. We offer personalized support, local knowledge, and we’re available to meet in person or by phone to ensure your documents are prepared correctly for your situation.

  • No. We are not attorneys and cannot provide legal advice or representation. However, we can refer you to local attorneys if needed, and we are experts in document preparation and filing.

  • Not always. We offer mobile services, and many documents can be handled via phone, email, or remote consultation. Some forms require notarization or original signatures, which we’ll coordinate with you.

  • Absolutely. All information you provide is kept private and secure. We treat every case with professionalism and care.

  • Yes. Victoria Dean Walters is a registered and bonded LDA in Riverside County and a member of the California Association of Legal Document Assistants (CALDA)

    California Association of Legal Document Assistants Member Logo

Have Questions?

We're here to help with all of your legal document needs. Reach out today with any questions. Fill out the form on the right or give us a call to schedule a consultation.

(442) 396-5584

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