Losing a loved one is one of the most difficult things a person has to go through. Aside from dealing with your sadness and grief, you also have to deal with your loved one’s assets and debts. I am here to provide guidance and support in honoring your loved one’s wishes under their Will or the terms of their Trust. If no plan exists, I will walk you through the intestacy process.

Navigating and Supporting You Through Each Step

There are very specific rules and timelines associated with the probate process and estate administration. Having professional representation can be crucial during this time.

Probate, specifically, serves to settle a deceased individual’s debts, taxes, and the distribution of assets to beneficiaries according to their Will, or heirs under the intestate statute. Trust administration is very similar, but relies upon terms of the Trust and does not necessarily require court involvement. Estate administration encompasses both probate and non-probate transfers of assets, along with the preparation and filing of necessary tax returns.

Core Steps in Any Case

After identifying relevant documents to determine which path – probate, trust, or estate administration – and establishing your authority, the next key steps are the same: 1) collect, inventory, and consolidate the assets; 2) use the assets to pay off any final debts and handle any necessary tax filings; and 3) distribute the assets to whomever the will, trust, or law directs.

Where to Start

No matter where you are in the process, or how long it has been since your loved one passed, I am here to help you. Explore the different aspects of probate, trust, and estate administration listed here to learn more, or schedule your consultation today to discuss your unique situation.