Business Owner Death and Complex Estates
What if I want to keep the business running?
Short answer
The executor or trustee has authority to continue operating a business while the estate is settled. The goal is typically to preserve the business's value. If you want to buy the business from the estate, you will need an independent valuation and…
What this usually means
The executor or trustee has authority to continue operating a business while the estate is settled. The goal is typically to preserve the business's value. If you want to buy the business from the estate, you will need an independent valuation and the transaction must be arm's-length to protect the estate from later challenges.
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.