Business Owner Death and Complex Estates
What happens to a partnership when a partner dies?
Short answer
Check the partnership agreement — it should address this directly. Without an agreement, California law may dissolve the partnership at death. Surviving partners may have the right to buy out the deceased's interest. Business clients and counterparties need to be notified of…
What this usually means
Check the partnership agreement — it should address this directly. Without an agreement, California law may dissolve the partnership at death. Surviving partners may have the right to buy out the deceased's interest. Business clients and counterparties need to be notified of any change in authority.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county help for coroner contacts, vital records, cost tools, and paperwork.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.